Incarcerated parents gave backpacks to their children during Saturday visiting thanks to the efforts of CDCR staff and community volunteers.
Partnering with STAR/PAL, which stands for Sports Training, Academics, and Recreation/Police Athletic League, Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) held their first back-to-school backpack giveaway for children of incarcerated people.
STAR/PAL facilitated the donation of backpacks and school supplies for incarcerated parents to give to their child during visiting on Saturday, Aug. 17.
As the incarcerated person checked in with officers prior to their visit, they were able to grab a backpack and present it to their school-age child.
“Staff recognizes the incarcerated person may not always have the ability to play a positive role in their child’s life,” said RJD organizers. “It is the hope that events such as this one will strengthen the relationships between incarcerated people and their loved ones in a positive way and help solidify their role in the family, enabling a smoother transition upon their release.”
Submitted by Lt. Adam Garvey
Written by S. Amador
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