In 1982 we started to deliver Christmas packages to Christian inmates on death row, San Quentin State Prison, CA, to celebrate Christ’s love for the poor and those in prison. We have been privileged to work with individuals, churches (Open Door Christian Churches, Lucas Valley Community Church, Living Streams and others), and Christian ministries (Son Shine Ministries, Catholic Sisters and others), to reach out to indigent death row prisoners who are without family or visible means of support. This program provides much needed items, such as clothing, food items and toiletry supplies, to those who are lost and friendless.
While many death row prisoners are allowed out-of-cell exercise periods of one time per week for 3 to 4 hours, nearly half of all prisoners remain inside their cells. Overcrowding at the institution creates an unpredictably volatile atmosphere on the exercise yards. So out of self preservation, many lives are spent within a 4’x10’ cell.
There are nearly 700 death row inmates in San Quentin. These men are not allowed to work, so their only possible income comes from giving family or friends. Many inmates simply cannot afford basic canteen items such as toiletries and food supplements. Many have inadequate clothing; shoes, socks, and underwear. The Christmas Package program fulfills basic needs for impoverished men residing on death row without consideration of race or religious belief. It is to let these men know that our God loves them and there are people outside who care.
Each package contains items each prisoner has personally requested. If they need tennis shoes, they are encouraged to ask for them; if they desire toiletries or food or chocolate… it doesn’t matter, they receive what they most desire. The budget allowance for each package is approximately $125.00. Inmate’s orders are gathered by our Christian fellowship, prisoners, on death row, and then orders are processed outside by volunteers. The orders are forwarded to pre-approved vendors who assemble the packages sent directly to each prisoner. If donors wish, we can furnish the name and address of the prisoner to whom any donor provided a package.
Imagine being in near total isolation, a death row inmate, and receiving not only a Christmas package of wonderful things, but also the knowledge that a person or church cares. Any consideration and/or support for the outreach would be deeply appreciated. If you are able, will you respond by November 30th, please? We depend on your prayers.
Thank you.
Respectfully,
“The Church inside prison walls”
Phil and Vickie Holmes
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