Christmas gifts for prisoners’ children

Media release and photo: 11 December 2008

Christmas gifts for prisoners’ children

Prisoners’ children will receive at least one Christmas present this year thanks to PILLARS who will be delivering Christmas presents to children of prisoners in Christchurch and outer districts.

“We want to make Christmas a happier time for the many children throughout Christchurch who have parents in prison by making sure they receive a gift for Christmas,” says Verna McFelin from PILLARS.

The present from PILLARS could be the only gift these children receive this Christmas, she says.

Staff and volunteers will distribute the presents which have been donated by caring members of the public and the Beulah Christian Fellowship. PILLARS is a community-based organisation providing support for children of prisoners.

This year IAG Insurance will be wrapping the presents and the Presbyterian Women’s Fellowship is providing special grocery items for the families.

“We are very thankful to all the people who give so generously of their time and resources to make this happen,” says Verna McFelin.

The Christmas Project called “Promise Children” gives hope to the many Christchurch children coping with the imprisonment of their parent.

Donations can now be made to PILLARS through the Give a Little website which has been created to make charity fund-raising more user-friendly.

“PILLARS welcomes this initiative which also provides groups of givers to get involved in their own campaigns,” says Verna McFelin.

“Through Give a Little we have the opportunity to not only raise funds but to also increase awareness about what we do to help prisoners’ children.”

To donate simply visit www.givealittle.co.nz and search for PILLARS.

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