Christmas Outreach for Children of Parolees

Bringing Joy, Dignity, and Hope—One Gift at a Time

Since the 1990s, First Congregational Church of Bakersfield, UCC, has partnered with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, through DAPO/APU (Division of Adult Parole Operations / Adult Program Unit), to provide Christmas gifts and essential items to children whose parents are on parole.

This ministry meets a tender need—many of these families are struggling to rebuild their lives, and the holidays can feel especially heavy.

What We Provide

Each year, FCC Bakersfield members and friends work together to:

  • Donate and wrap new Christmas gifts for children of all ages

  • Provide winter clothing, hygiene kits, school supplies, and age-appropriate items

  • Offer encouragement and dignity to families working hard to heal and move forward

The gifts are hand-delivered in partnership with parole officers, helping restore community trust and showing each child they are seen, valued, and loved.

Why This Matters

Children with incarcerated or formerly incarcerated parents often feel forgotten or left out—especially during the holidays.
This outreach reminds them that they matter.

It also offers hope to families trying to break cycles of trauma and find a new path forward.

Tables decorated with red snowflake tablecloths and wrapped Christmas gifts at First Congregational Church of Bakersfield, prepared for children of parolees during the church’s annual holiday outreach.