The Coalition was started by the late Phyllis Beck of Eugene, Oregon. Phyllis believed that everyone with hepatitis C deserved proper medical care - including men and women who are incarcerated. Phyllis passed away in 2008, but her legacy continues through the work of the Prison Coalition.

On May 15th, 2009, the Oregon State House of Representatives unanimously approved Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 1, a memorial to Phyllis Beck recognizing her life and work on behalf of prisoners affected by hepatitis. Click here to read the resolution (PDF).

Since 2008, the Coalition has been managed by the Hepatitis Education Proeject (HEP).  HEP is a nonprofit organzation based in Seattle, Washington dedicated to providing support, education, advocacy and direct services to people affected by hepatitis.  HEP has a long history of working in prisons and jails.  You can read about two of our corrections programs here and here.