Press Release

In a program which began over 50 years ago, Santa Claus' helpers in the Los Angeles County Jails have once again worked the entire year to make Christmas Day more memorable for needy children. This holiday season, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department will distribute more than 5,700 handcrafted dolls and wooden toys to children throughout the County. "I am extremely proud of the men and women involved in this ongoing program," said Sheriff Lee Baca. "Each year, the labors of the instructional staff and jail inmates brighten the lives of children within our communities by providing a present that may be the only gift that the child will receive."

This year, the inmates at Twin Towers Correctional Facility handcrafted 5,000 cloth dolls and clowns, while the inmates at Pitchess Detention Center, North Facility, constructed 700 wooden cars, trucks, helicopters, and animal pull toys.

"The personal satisfaction felt by those involved in the toy giveaway program is outweighed only by the joy they're able to provide to the children. The program is a blessing to these deserving children and enables the inmates to use their time in a productive manner that benefits the community," Sheriff Baca said. "To brighten the life of a child during the holidays is certainly one of the most rewarding feelings any of us can experience. After all, it is what the spirit of the holiday season is all about," the Sheriff added.

Materials used to create these holiday gifts were donated by local merchants and residents. These supplies need to be replaced every year. Please contact the Sheriff's Department's Vocational Shops if you are willing to help support this worthwhile program through the donation of wood, wood stain, yarn, cloth material or sewing thread. Doll materials should be directed to Sharon Nelson at (213) 473-6097. Wooden toy materials should be directed to Bryan Trout at (661) 295-8840, Ext. 8069.

SHB-94A-02

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December 11, 2002

Photos available upon request.