An Angel Tree Programme volunteer helps to
wrap presents for the children of prisoners.
Children of prisoners throughout New Zealand will receive Christmas presents from their incarcerated parent this year, thanks to the Angel Tree project.
The Angel Tree project is co-ordinated by Prison Fellowship, with the support of the Prison Chaplaincy Service, churches, volunteers, service organisations, schools and businesses throughout New Zealand.
Barry Timms of Prison Fellowship says that last Christmas the project gave gifts to 2750 children throughout the country.
“This year we expect to give around 3000 gifts. The prisons always work closely with us to make the project a success, especially the prison chaplains. They do a superb job,” he says.
Prison Chaplaincy Service Director David Major says the project must be carefully co-ordinated.
“Many issues have to be considered. For example, we try to avoid sending $30 presents from dad, who’s in prison, if mum, who’s been struggling all year to put food on the table, will be buying her Christmas presents from the $2 shop. It’s about providing appropriate presents for the situation,” he says.
There are fifteen local Angel Tree organising committees throughout New Zealand. In most centres, requests are placed on angels and attached to an Angel Tree in churches. Congregation members can take one and buy the present for the prisoner’s child, on behalf of the prisoner parent.
“The presents are about $20 - $30 so it’s a great way for people to help children who may not receive many other presents during the festive season,” says Sam Sivertsen of PILLARS, a member of the Canterbury organising committee.
Prisoners are also given the opportunity to hand-write cards to attach to the presents for their children.
“It’s just one way we can help prisoners’ children to feel less isolated and lonely at this time when other families can all be together to enjoy the Christmas festivities,” says Sam.
“The children are so happy to receive a gift from their parent even though they can’t be with them at Christmas time.”
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ISSN 1178-8453