Kids, moms bond over books at CIW

February 28, 2025

California Institution for Women (CIW) in Chino, along with Gordon Philanthropies, celebrated Read to Your Child Day with books and baked goods Feb. 15.

With the mountains draped in snow overlooking the city of Chino, Gordon Philanthropies and CIW staff joined forces. Visiting offered a chance to celebrate mothers and children bonding over books.

The event also featured colorful bags filled with books for children to take back to their homes.

Children with parents who are incarcerated often struggle academically due to many factors. They find themselves moving to a new home, attending a new school, and feeling the loss of their parent being home.

According to the National Institute of Justice, “a parent’s incarceration poses several threats to a child’s emotional, physical, educational and financial well-being.”

Events fostering a love for reading are important for children visiting their incarcerated loved ones.

The event gifted the children four new books to take home after the time spent reading with their mothers.

The celebration of Read to Your Child Day would not have been possible without the leadership of acting Warden Lavelle Parker, Associate Warden Delinia Lewis and Community Resources Manager Carmen Jimenez. They were instrumental in organizing a fun day for all.

“Gordon Philanthropies is grateful for the opportunity to come together with CDCR staff to provide meaningful events such as this for the children,” according to the organization.

Learn more about Gordon Philanthropies on their website.

Submitted by Lt. William Newborg