Angel Tree Program Marks 28 Years
The BVI Prison Fellowship has celebrated the 28th consecutive year of the Myrtle Cox Stoutt Angel Tree Program, which delivers Christmas gifts to children of incarcerated parents while preserving family dignity and privacy. The program, named for a founding member, works alongside the Fellowship’s school uniform and textbook initiatives and relies on a network of local partners.
The British Virgin Islands Prison Fellowship is marking the 28th consecutive year of its Myrtle Cox Stoutt Angel Tree Program, a long-running holiday initiative that provides Christmas gifts to the children of incarcerated parents. Myrtle Cox Stoutt — a dedicated charter member who worked during the organisation’s formative years — the Angel Tree Program aims to bring joy to children during a time that can be especially difficult for families affected by incarceration.
The gifts are presented in the name of the incarcerated parent, and the Fellowship intentionally omits its own name from the presentation to preserve the dignity and privacy of the families involved, the organisation said. For many residents of the BVI, the Angel Tree has become a familiar and welcome part of the community’s holiday response.
By ensuring children receive presents and by safeguarding the identity of parents, the programme helps maintain family connections and offers emotional support at a challenging time. The Fellowship emphasises that the initiative is part of a broader effort to support families affected by incarceration, which also includes school uniform and textbook programmes aimed at keeping children in school and reducing stress on households.
The sustained operation of the Angel Tree for nearly three decades reflects a network of community partners and volunteers. This year the BVI Prison Fellowship extended special thanks to its partners who make the programme possible: The BVI Catholic Community The Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Gamma Alpha Mu Zeta Chapter Davis Funeral Home The Social Development Department The Rotary Club of Road Town These organisations provide logistical, financial and volunteer support that allows the Fellowship to reach children across the territory.
Their involvement underscores a community-wide commitment to the welfare of children and families impacted by the criminal justice system. Residents who would like more information or who wish to support the programme can contact the BVI Prison Fellowship directly at drrmwright@hotmail.com.
The Fellowship encourages community participation and reiterates its commitment to preserving the dignity of families while delivering much-needed holiday relief.
Primary source: Guavaberry