On a Saturday morning in Honolulu, the Women's Community Correctional Center (WCCC) and Wellspring Covenant Church organized an Easter Kids’ Day. The event welcomed 10 incarcerated mothers, 19 children, and 11 caregivers.
The event featured activities such as decorating eggs and bunny-shaped cookies, playing games, and a bubble machine. A lunch was prepared by graduates of the Kapiʻolani Community College (KCC) Culinary Arts Program, with dishes including focaccia bread cheese pizza and chili. Chef Lee Shinsato assisted the graduates with the food preparation.
Culinary graduates also prepared sweet treats, such as scones and brownies, which were offered to all participants. In addition, 27 church volunteers and five incarcerated women organized an Easter egg hunt. Children opened toy eggs and received raffle tickets for new toys.
“Kids’ Day is a special event for women and their children to spend time bonding with one another,” said WCCC Warden Ione “Noni” Guillonta. The Rev. Rebecca Stringer of Wellspring Covenant Church commented on the significance of connection, stating, “Sometimes it’s just as small as showing up and giving the gift of connection between a mom and her kid.”
The Director of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR), Tommy Johnson, attended the event, highlighting the benefits for family bonds. He thanked staff and community partners for supporting the event.
The Honolulu facility hosts Kids’ Day events several times a year, collaborating with various faith-based and nonprofit organizations. Future events include one at Waiawa Correctional Facility for fathers and another at Hālawa Correctional Facility. Photos and videos of the event are available online.