My CMA chapter "adopted" 12 - 15 children through the Angel Tree Program - a prison ministry. Incarcerated parents express a wish to have Christmas gifts given to their children from them. We asked for 12 children and ended up with 15 after we factored in the step-children. We were to purchase a "fun" gift and a "practical" gift, each gift costing in the neighborhood of $25. We then wrapped the gifts and put an "angel ornament on the gift that had a message from their incarcerated parent. We delivered these gifts this past weekend. (wearing our "colors" of course), breaking up into small groups of 3 or 4. I've done something similar through church, but the recipients were less fortunate families - this was way different.
Going into the homes where the separation of a loved one is because of poor choices that person made was eye opening for me as a parent of 2 children that are the same ages of the men and women whose children and parents we met. In the two homes I visited, the grandmother is the foster parent - both were appreciative and grateful that we did this to keep the parent/child bond strengthened. We shared hugs and prayer with these families before we left - then went to a local eatery to share our individual experiences with the larger group.
Today is Christmas Eve . . . I'm thankful for the opportunity to serve those imprisioned and their families - and I'm thankful for God's abundant blessings in my life.
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