Successful Holiday Drive for Supervised Release Clients

The Supervised Release Program, within Bronx Community Solutions, held its first annual holiday drive event on December 18, 2018 at the Bronx Criminal Court House. The holiday drive was developed by Samantha Wynn and Elizabeth Beshears as a way to make the holidays brighter for a population of people who are often discriminated against. Toys, non-perishable food items, and clothing were collected for participants of the Supervised Release program; whose mission is to reduce the number of people held in jail simply because they cannot afford bail. Families affected by the judicial system face a multitude of hardships, so much so that extras like holiday gifts either become an afterthought or are, sadly, not even a thought at all.

Thanks to donations received from Trader Joe’s, Food Bazaar, friends, family and employees of Bronx Community Solutions and the Center for Court Innovation, we were able to spread holiday cheer to more than 25 Supervised Release clients who participated in the event. In addition to the more than 25 clients who participated in the event we also provided gifts to 40 families with children. Gifts such as; games, books, colored pencils, and baby necessities, were given to families with children ranging in ages from newborn to 18 years old. Families without children were able to choose from a variety of food, and clothing items. The drive helped to establish additional rapport and enhance communication with clients and help show that the program truly cares beyond judicial reasons.  The drive was a success and the clients were happy and appreciative. It is an amazing feeling to know that we were able to do something so special. We are truly grateful for all the donations and support that was received. We are looking forward to making this a yearly tradition. 

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