By Lt. J. Hill
On Feb. 13, staff members at the California Men’s Colony (CMC) hosted their sixth annual Dessert Silent Auction, with all proceeds being donated to the Children’s Resource Network of the Central Coast (CRNCC). The fundraiser is just one more example of CDCR’s community involvement.
The charity was founded by Lisa Ray in order to help impoverished and homeless children in the region. The group distributes clothing, school supplies and basic hygiene products to children and teens, while helping restore and preserve their sense of self-worth by treating them with respect, dignity and love, according to the organization.
Ray, who helped judge the silent auction entries, recognizes children do judge each other’s physical appearance, hygiene and clothing condition. She said giving deodorant to a homeless child who cannot bathe helps them to feel less self-conscious, even if for a moment. Giving new socks to a child whose parents cannot afford laundry services helps ensure that child will not be embarrassed by the condition of their clothes.
CMC Warden J. Gastelo, known for her spirit of charity and community, has inspired the same actions among her staff. The silent auction, which included desserts, gift certificate packages and individual baked good sales, raised $4,521 dollars for the children’s charity.
Warden Gastelo and Ray offered their heartfelt thanks to the staff of CMC for working together to make this event successful and for helping those in need.
