Many mothers who struggle with opiate addiction end up losing their children to social services because they are deemed unfit to care for them. However, drug rehab programs may be able to help these women end their chemical dependencies and regain custody of their children.

A group of drug-addicted mothers in New Jersey was recently afforded this opportunity, according to the New Jersey Star-Ledger. Following arrests for nonviolent drug offenses, they were put through drug rehab programs to help them eliminate their addictions. Then, they were enrolled in the state’s Family Afterward program.

The initiative allows women to reconnect with their children and form a bond that may have been missing while they were using drugs. After the participants have proven themselves to be in a better position in their lives, they may have a chance to regain custody of their children.

Officials told the news source that this incentive helps in relapse prevention efforts. It provides women with a goal that can help keep them away from drugs in the future.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that 45,000 babies are born in the U.S. to mothers addicted to cocaine each year.