Having a parent behind bars is traumatic enough for children, but to a young child at Christmas time it may be an emotional disaster. When children go into a jail to see their mother or father during the holidays, the very real potential for psychological scarring exists. A group of men, women and children since 2013 have taken these kids, the most innocent victims of mass incarceration, into their hearts and their arms at Christmas time at the jails in Houston. They have donated time, money and energy to ensure these little humans receive at least a little glimmer of happiness when they emerge from the repressive atmosphere of the Harris County Adult Detention Center. Walking out of the doors there, they see a crowd of smiling faces standing behind Santa Claus and a huge pile of presents. To see the transformation on these small faces from sadness and confusion to wonder and pure joy changes the lives of all who experience it.
You are cordially invited to join us at the jail on Christmas Eve this year as we carry these children a message of hope and love. To Volunteer contact: Rebecca Lavergne: [email protected]
If you cannot make it but still want to help, please go to www.hpjc.org and note that the donation is for the Christmas at the Jail event. Snail mailers can send tax free donations to Houston Peace and Justice Center, PO Box 66234, Houston Texas 77266.
There is much wrong in the world today, this is an opportunity to be a part of something which is clearly good and positive.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
