Our stories

The very first Child & Parent Day at Shortland Correctional Centre was an unforgettable success!

For children with a dad in custody at Shortland, this was the very first chance they’d had to simply be together in a child friendly environment, playing games, making crafts, and sharing lunch with the parent they miss so much. This time is truly priceless for children.

“The first program to be conducted is always a special moment,” our team shared.

One family quickly settled at the arts and crafts table and asked for some sticky tape. Together, they created a cardboard family poster filled with drawings, words, and colourful decorations about what family means to them.

It was a beautiful moment, and a memory the children will hold close.

 

As they worked, each person shared their feelings, adding bright colours and plenty of glitter. When the day wrapped up, an officer gave permission for Dad to take the poster back with him. It was a beautiful moment, and a memory the children will hold close.

Another dad also shared how meaningful it was to simply sit and enjoy lunch as a family, something they never get to do during a normal one-hour visit. This special day gave them time to slow down and reconnect.

At the end of the event, one dad made an effort to tell our team just how grateful he was for the chance to spend real, quality time with his children. The kids also thanked staff and SHINE for Kids for making the day possible.

For centre staff, this was their first time seeing a Child & Parent Day in action, and they loved it! They said it was a fantastic idea and have already asked for the next one.

We’re grateful to the staff at Shortland Correctional Centre. This day simply wouldn’t have happened without their support.

“The excitement on the dads and children’s faces, their happiness expressed in the voices and smiles, that they give to one another, makes all the effort that goes into the day worth it,” said our team.

“You go home feeling warm and content, knowing that you made a difference.”

*Images changed to protect privacy of participants.