Angel Tree

Regular readers may remember that earlier in the year I spent some time with Chaplaincy Team at Lowdham Grange Prison. One of the things I found out about, when I was there, was the Angel Tree scheme.

Here are some startling pieces of information:

• It is estimated that 150,000 children have a parent in prison
• 66% of female prisoners and 59%of male prisoners have children under the age of 18
• During their sentence 45% of people lose contact with their families
• Maintaining family contact can make prisoners up to 6 times less likely to re-offend.

Angel Tree provides Christmas presents for prisoners’ children. Local Prison Fellowship volunteer groups raise funds and work with churches and prison chaplains to buy and deliver the presents. Each gift is sent as though it is from the parent in prison who is also able to write a personal message to their child. If the parent requests it, a Christmas story book is also sent.

The immediate effect is the delight of the child who receives the Christmas present. Angel Tree is a wonderful link between a child and their mum or dad in prison and helps towards family reconciliation.

If you think that you could help with this scheme, this Christmas, please contact the Prison Fellowship to find out how it is being organised near you.

Tel: 01621 843232
angeltree@prisonfellowship.org.uk