CDCR and CCHCS staff gave thanks while also pitching in to help the community during Thanksgiving, delivering food to those in need.
LAC Thanksgiving baskets build community beyond walls
At CSP-Los Angeles County (LAC), employees held their annual Thanksgiving basket contest on Nov. 17. According to organizers, the “contest exemplifies the unwavering commitment of correctional staff to serve both within and beyond the walls.”
The contest brings together staff who assemble Thanksgiving meal items and decorate the baskets, all for a good cause. The baskets are given to the Valley Oasis Domestic Violence Shelter, serving those in need of a safe place.
“The contest showcases the generosity and empathy from our staff, highlighting the shared values of compassion and service. Staff members channel their spirit of gratitude into these baskets, recognizing the importance of assisting vulnerable populations and providing essential aid during the holiday season,” organizers said. “Beyond the competition, this contest represents a collaborative effort, bridging the gap between the institution and the wider community.”
Representatives from Valley Oasis Domestic Violence Shelter came to judge the entries.
CSP-LAC Warden Leanna Lundy awarded the winner with a pizza party.
Submitted by Lt. Daniel Schumacher, AA/PIO
Holiday sees WSP-RC offering community help
Wasco State Prison-Reception Center (WSP-RC) spread a little Thanksgiving cheer throughout the community of Wasco during this Thanksgiving season.
Every year, the staff at WSP-RC hold a food drive beginning at the end of October, coordinated through the Community Resource Manager’s (CRM) office. They gather specific canned food and other non-perishable items to put together 120 Thanksgiving baskets for delivery to families going through a difficult time in the community.
The baskets were assembled and delivered by WSP-RC custody and non-custody volunteers from Nov. 17-20. The recipients were designated by the city of Wasco.
Each basket contained a Turkey voucher with funds donated by the Wasco Chapter of the California Correctional Peace Officers Association as well as California Correctional Supervisors Organization. The baskets also held side dishes to create a complete family Thanksgiving meal with desert.
There were also 26 baskets designated for the seniors that each department of WSP-RC decorated for a contest to raise funds. This all ensured there was enough funds to purchase food for the remaining baskets.
“This is a wonderful event that staff members at WSP-RC enjoy doing every Thanksgiving season for the community in which we serve,” said organizers.
Submitted by Lt. J. Farley, AA/PIO
ISP helps Harmony Kitchen feed those in need
On Nov. 17, Ironwood State Prison (ISP) management delivered boxes filled with food donations to Harmony Kitchen, an organization that helps feed those in need.
The donations came from ISP staff as part of the institution’s annual holiday generosity.
“ISP staff members take pride in helping our community during the holiday season for people who are in need. The food donated will assist Harmony Kitchen to provide a warm meal to those who likely would not have been able to enjoy one during Thanksgiving,” according to ISP food drive organizers.
Submitted by Lt. C. Whalen, AA/PIO
See more community involvement stories.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.