For many who are incarcerated, the holidays can be a lonely time.
A time that is meant to bring families and friends together can bring painful memories and cause division. But it doesn’t have to be. In fact, all the more reason for families with a loved one in prison to draw together and connect. Although it is more difficult for families to celebrate over the holidays, this is a chance to grow closer together.
“Weather you are looking forward to the holidays or dreading it, there are many ways to spread the holiday cheer in prison too.”
Today, we are sharing some special ways one organization, prison fellowship, shared to help inmates celebrate the holidays by finding someone else too bless. These ideas were inspired by incarcerated men and women who wanted to make the holidays season a little brighter for them. We hope these ideas serve as a great way to help the many that are spending the holidays in prison.
HOST A CARD OR GIFT EXCHANGE
Invite others from your unit to each purchase or make a gift and bring it to the exchange. Do not label the gifts, so that anyone can feel comfortable taking any item.
DONATE TO AN INDIGENT FUND IF YOUR FACILITY HAS ONE.
Consider donating a portion of your financial support to your facility’s indigent fund (if one exists). Knowing you’ll be brightening someone else’s holiday might just lift your spirits and cause a chain reaction.
DONATE A SKILL
If you have a special skill, giving your time and talent can help bless other prisoners. Offer free services, such as a hair appointment, legal research, or tutor in a subject that you have already mastered.
MAKE CHRISTMAS CARDS
Spend a little money at the commissary on items (poster board, colored pencils, etc.) to make Christmas cards. Mail them to loved ones and give them to friends in your unit. Especially consider giving cards to those who may not receive a lot of mail from the outside.
DONATE ITEMS FROM THE CANTEEN
Rally a group of prisoners to purchase socks or toiletry items to donate to a local homeless shelter or relief organization.
GO CAROLING
Form a group from your unit and walk around the yard singing Christmas carols, or go cell to cell with favorites like “Joy to the World,” “The First Noel,” and “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing.”
Excerpts of this blog are courtesy of Prison Fellowship.