Kids’ Day Event Returns to the Women’s Community Correctional Center

Posted on Jan 31, 2024 in Featured, Main

The Women’s Community Correctional Center (WCCC) celebrated the return of Kids’ Day in December for the first time since 2019. The event gives moms a chance to reconnect with their children over sweet treats and fun games. Prior to the pandemic, WCCC conducted the event several times a year, partnering with community organizations such as Keiki O Ka ‘Āina, Wellspring Covenant Church, Pū‘ā Foundation, and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Honolulu.

“Events like these are critically important as they help incar­cerated mothers maintain crucial bonds with their children,” said Hawai‘i Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) Director Tommy Johnson. “It also reinforces the message to mothers to stay the course and complete evidence-based programs so they can reunite with their children.”

Simone Kamaunu and her 2-year-old child, Ethic-Lee, spend quality time enjoying activities, games and shave ice at Kids’ Day held at the Women’s Community Correctional Center on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023. Photo credit: Hawai‘i Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

On December 9, 12 mothers and 18 children enjoyed hot dogs, burgers, and cupcakes donated by the Pū‘ā Foundation. The WCCC Maunawili Cottage courtyard was lovingly deco­rated by volunteers with holiday-themed balloons, and the keiki also enjoyed shave ice, face painting, a puppet show, and games.

The Pū‘ā Foundation partnered with the Office for Social Ministry – Roman Catholic Diocese of Honolulu and the O‘ahu Going Home Consortium to volunteer and raise
funds for Kids’ Day.

WCCC Warden Ione “Noni” Guillonta said, “Research has shown the importance of the parent-child relationship and the traumatic effect the loss of a parent through incarceration can have on a child. Maintaining contact and continuing to build their relationship with their children is crucial for the incarcerated parent and child as they prepare for their release and return to the community.”

WCCC plans to host several more Kids’ Day events this year, and Director Johnson said the department is look­ing into the possibility of expan­ding the event to other correctional facilities.