Two local charities received donations thanks to the efforts of staff and incarcerated residents at Centinela State Prison.
Warden Raymond Madden and Chief Deputy Warden Fidencio Guzman encouraged fundraising efforts to support local charities. The incarcerated population rose to the challenge through a food sale fundraiser via the local area Domino’s. The sale raised $30,640 for two charities selected by the incarcerated population.
Community Resources Manager (CRM) Ken Phillips and his staff helped with the efforts, coordinating everything, including delivering food during a storm.
“With all of the negative aspects of the last year, it is so refreshing to help these worthy causes with all of the positive work that they do,” said Phillips.
The local chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation received $20,640 to help in their efforts to grant life changing experiences. The charitable organization helps children who have life-threatening medical conditions by arranging experiences known as “wishes.”
Staff who assisted in the fundraising effort are Correctional Officer Lydda Ochoa, a 25-year CDCR employee. Lydda has acted as a Wish Grantor and Mentor for Make-A-Wish for five years. Sergeant Ericka Valencia, a 20-year veteran of CDCR, has also served as a Wish Grantor for more than two years. Both staff members have volunteered hours of personal time to make local children’s wishes come true.
Learn more about Make-A-Wish.
The second recipient, The Humane Society of Imperial County, received $10,000. The funds will help provide shelter and veterinary services to more than 150 dogs and cats, that have been abandoned and are awaiting adoption. The Humane Society receives a large part of its annual funding through private donations.
Submitted by CRM Ken Phillips and Lieutenant D. Loop.
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