Kids’ Day at Women’s Community Correctional Center supports children of incarcerated mothers

Inmate Shyrae Naihe greeted her 14-year-old daughter with a long embrace as soon as the teenager and other children and youth entered the courtyard of the Maunawili Cottage at the Women’s Community Correctional Center (WCCC) to spend quality time with their mothers. 

WCCC and Keiki O Ka ‘Āina Family Learning Centers co-hosted a Kids’ Day “Christmas in July” event at the facility Saturday, July 20, 2024, for 12 incarcerated mothers and 14 children.

The courtyard was decorated with red and green balloons and streamers for the holiday-themed event where 14 volunteers facilitated games such as water ballon toss and doughnuts on a string.

For three-and-a-half hours, mothers spent quality time bonding with their keiki. They also enjoyed a barbecue lunch of hot dogs, hamburgers, shave ice, chips and cupcakes.

Under an open canopy tent, mothers and volunteers helped children pick toys such as Legos, Play Doh, Squishmallows and many more donated by community organizations.

Director Tommy Johnson of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said, “Events such as Kids’ Day are critical to maintaining the bonds between mothers and their children and also assists with successful reunification.”

WCCC Warden Ione “Noni” Guillonta echoed Director Johnson’s sentiment. 

“Events like this are so important. It’s really important that the ladies in our custody continue to have a family connectedness with their children and with their other family members,” Guillonta said.

The caregivers that accompanied the children to Saturday’s event are primarily family members of the incarcerated mothers.

Executive Director Momi Akana of Keiki O Ka ‘Āina Family Learning Centers said, “Keeping families engaged and relationships strong are the best way to help ensure that the parent won’t re-offend.”

The event was donated by Keiki O Ka ‘Āina Family Learning Centers and community partners.