In the heart of Long Beach, California, there is a remarkable initiative that shines brightly during the holiday season – The Angel Tree Christmas project. Led by the dedicated Alisha Wade, president of the nonprofit, Hands of New Hope, this program is all about spreading love and support to children whose parents are incarcerated and unable to be with them during Christmas. Keep reading to learn how Hands of New Hope, supported by a team of compassionate volunteers, is making a difference in the lives of these young children.
A Heartfelt Mission
Alisha Wade, in collaboration with her sorority, Beta Pi Sigma, is the driving force behind the Angel Tree Prison Ministry project. Their mission is simple yet powerful – to bring Christmas gifts and joy to children who might otherwise miss out on the magic of the season. What makes this initiative truly unique is the level of care and discretion involved. Volunteers don’t get to see the children’s faces or even know their names; they are identified solely by assigned numbers to ensure their safety and privacy.
Protecting the Innocence
One of the challenges faced by this project is ensuring the safety of the children involved. Alisha and her team have to navigate potential conflicts, such as children from rival gang-affiliated families. To address this, gifts are given to the children using only their first names, allowing them to enjoy their presents without unnecessary risks.
A Growing Impact
The Angel Tree Prison Ministry project has been touching lives for over a decade. It all began when Alisha was inspired by the larger Angel Tree Prison Ministry, which has been serving communities for more than 50 years. Currently, the project supports a significant number of children, with the help of not only Alisha’s sorority but also numerous volunteers from the community.
Gift-giving during this event is about more than just toys. The children receive gifts they both want and need, ranging from cherished toys to practical items like school uniforms and hygiene products. Older children are not left out; they receive gift cards to ensure they can select something special for themselves.
A Year-Round Commitment
Due to the unfortunate increase in Black women entering the prison system, many of the children served by this project are African American. It highlights the importance of programs like these that address the specific needs of marginalized communities.
What sets this project apart is its commitment beyond the holiday season. The team maintains close ties with several families throughout the year, providing ongoing support and assistance. A sense of community and belonging is at the core of their efforts.
Inspired by a Legacy
Beyond the Angel Tree Prison Ministry project, Alisha Wade is actively involved in several community organizations, including Hands of New Hope, the Long Beach chapter of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), and the local branch of the NAACP. Her dedication to community service has earned her well-deserved recognition.
Her commitment to community service and her passion for helping others can be traced back to her family’s legacy. She manages New Hope Homes, Inc., a HUD-funded low-income senior facility that her grandfather, Rev. N.J. Kirkpatrick Sr., founded. This facility, built in 1971, stands as a testament to her grandfather’s vision and determination. It was environmentally sustainable even before such practices became popular.
The Angel Tree Prison Ministry project is a touching example of compassion, community support, and the enduring spirit of giving back to those in need. It serves as a shining example of what can be accomplished when individuals come together to make a positive impact on the lives of others. In Long Beach, California, these dedicated individuals are creating a brighter future for countless children and leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and care.