By Loretta B Manele

The Prison Fellowship Solomon Islands’ (PFSI) Angel Tree program brought smiles to the children of inmates yesterday at the Rove Correctional centre.

They received bible teachings from the Child Evangelical Fellowship Program, entertainment and later Christmas presents.

This program aims to connect inmates with their children through Christmas gifts.

Gabriel Bate’e, president of PFSI whilst speaking at the occasion said the primary purpose of the Angel Tree program is to foster and heal the relationships between an inmate and his or her child.

He stressed that children of inmates are often overlooked, forgotten, rejected and scorned by society.

Bate’e however, pointed out that children should not be punished by their parents’ mistakes.

He said the program provides the opportunity to demonstrate the tangible love and compassion of Jesus Christ to children and families in need and to help restore damaged child-parent relationships through the separation caused by imprisonment.

Chris Bwekuli, who represented the office of the police commissioner and executive voiced that a simple gift can remind a child that they are seen, valued and loved.

He added that it can also remind a parent that they are not alone in their journey toward redemption.

Inspector Jimmy Aega, RISPF Director for programs and rehab acknowledged PFSI for their support of the Angel Tree program.

“We would also like to extend our deepest appreciation to Prison Fellowship Solomon Islands (PFSI) for their ongoing support of the Angel Tree Program”

He said through their dedication and effort, they have been able to provide gifts and bring smiles to so many faces.

“Your work makes a tangible difference in the lives of these children and we thank you for your steadfast commitment to this cause”