Prisoners across the country will be taking part in industry training and employment in prison kitchens this Christmas.
“Under the supervision of qualified instructors, prisoners get hands-on experience preparing the food served in prisons,” says Leigh Marsh, Commissioner Custodial Services.
“On Christmas Day they will be preparing the same basic and nutritious meal that has been served for a number of years. For lunch this will be roast chicken and gravy with potatoes, peas and carrots. In the evening they will be making sandwiches.
“Providing prisoners with opportunities to learn new skills helps them find employment after they’re released, supporting safe and successful reintegration into their communities,” Mr Marsh says.
People in prison are also giving back to the community in the lead up to Christmas, including those participating in the Sewing, Quilts and Crafts initiative at Auckland Region Women’s Corrections Facility. The programme is run by The NZ Howard League volunteers.
Over the past year, women taking part have made quilts and knitted baby and children’s clothing and soft toys. More than 400 items are being donated to families and children in need at Christmas time.
“These sorts of programmes build a sense of purpose, pride, and confidence, which can be an important part of making positive change,” says Mr Marsh.
Corrections staff up and down the country have also been supporting their local communities in the lead-up to Christmas, such as through volunteering for charities and collecting donations of food and toys for families in need.
“Our incredible staff keep Corrections operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Even on Christmas Day, they will be working hard to keep the public safe, and I’d like to thank each and every one of them for their commitment,” Mr Marsh says.
Christmas Day follows a similar structure and routine to any other day in prison, but throughout December there are special family days for children to visit their parents in prison and engage in festive activities such as crafts and games.
“This can be a tough time of year for prisoners and their families, so where possible, we enable opportunities for prisoners to share special moments with their families,” Mr Marsh says.