Prison Ministry Brings Moms, Keiki Together

Incarcerated mothers and their children will enjoy a day of togetherness Dec. 13, thanks to Roman Catholic Diocese of Honolulu’s Prison Ministry, but community donations and gift sponsors for keiki are needed.

The gathering, called “Star Light, Star Bright,” will be held at Women’s Community Correctional Center and serve as a “day of togetherness and reconciliation” for mothers and children, with games, food, entertainment and a visit from Santa.

“Our hope was that a simple act of giving would help in the process of mending damaged or strained relationships between incarcerated moms, their children and their children’s caregiver, many of whom are family members,” stated Paulette Vernay, coordinator of Star Light, Star Bright.

The program, which was started in 2000, is funded entirely by community donations. Gift sponsors for 159 keiki, and monetary contributions for airfare for 59 Neighbor Island children and their 34 caregivers are welcome by Dec. 13.

To donate, visit catholichawaii.org and click on the “Prison Ministry” link, email pvernay@rcchawaii.org or call 203-6722.

Vernay reminds that the party is a small but significant gesture for families.

“Some (of the children) had not even seen their moms for several years,” Vernay stated. “Having the Christmas party in WCCC brings the family together.”