All across the state, CDCR institutions made Christmas brighter for the less fortunate. This is the third installment of a series about CDCR staff and members of the incarcerated population working to provide gifts, clothing, food and rebuilt bicycles to their communities.
LA Central DAPO District staff gives turkeys, toys for holidays
Staff from CDCR’s Los Angeles Central Parole District, Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO), found a way to brighten the holidays for many parolees and their families on Dec. 23.
District staff identified 10 parolees who have continued to address their criminogenic needs while on parole supervision. They have maintained gainful employment, live a pro-social lifestyle and have remained drug free.
The Los Angeles Central Parole District provided each person with large Christmas bags stuffed with toys. DAPO staff also provided a full-course turkey dinner, including green beans, cranberry sauce, dressing and mashed potatoes.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the parole agents and support staff transformed the office parking lot into Santa’s Lane.
The parolees were able to drive through the designated area. DAPO staff members did the rest by filling the parolees’ vehicle trunks with bags of toys and turkey dinners.
Community partners, (One Stop) and the United States Marine Corp provided the donations.
Despite the pandemic, parole agents and staff remained committed to DAPO’s mission.
Contract Beds Unit makes wishes come true
The Contract Beds Unit (CBU) selected residents at the McKinley Park Care Center for its annual holiday giving. Permanent and short-term residents are served with 24-hour medical care or rehabilitative serves.
Many of the permanent residents have little to no contact with their families, isolating them even before COVID-19 restrictions.
CBU staff purchased three gifts for each of the 35 permanent residents as well as a stocking filled with goodies.
CBU staff also provided 40 additional stockings for short-term residents.
Since the residents are regular bingo players, CBU staff donated prizes for their game. Learn more about the McKinley Park Care Center at their website.
DAPO South Coast office delivers toys to parolee families
The Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) South Coast District held its an annual Christmas Toy/ Gift Drive last month.
Parole Agents nominated parolees and their families for holiday cheering up.
DAPO staff shopped for gifts and collected monetary donations. The annual effort provides families with gifts and financial assistance to those who may be experiencing financial difficulty.
To ensure health safety, staff adjusted the delivery of the gifts.
Parole Agents delivered and distributed toys to the homes. They were rewarded with smiles and gratitude, not only from the parolees but also from family members.
Due to COVID-19 safety restrictions, the annual turkey dinner was cancelled.
Read more about holiday help in Part 1 and Part 2.