Inmates’ children were showered with gifts during visitation hours at a Los Angeles County jail Sunday, three days before celebrating Christmas without their loved one at home.
“The atmosphere here is usually very somber, it’s really sad, and today it’s a great opportunity to lift up their spirits, let them know that, you know, this is only passive,” a sheriff’s deputy said.
Nearly 200 children received hand-made blankets and toys when they arrived at Men’s Central Jail to visit their loved ones.
Inmates made the blankets as part of an education program at the jail meant to “enhance their rehabilitation efforts by engaging them in a community service program.”
While making the blankets, inmates discussed the act of giving and rebuilding relationships with their children, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Deputies joined businesses including JADA Toys of City of Industry, Toys R Us, Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Friends Outside, Inter-Agency Council on Child Abuse and Neglect (ICAN) Board, Special Olympics and others to donate toys for the children.
This was the second year inmates’ children were treated to a Christmas surprise.
