PEF, Community Groups Make Gift Giving Special for Deserving Parolee Families

ALBANY, NY (12/13/2014)(readMedia)-- Leaders and members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) kept a 24-year holiday tradition alive today by wrapping toys and gifts, and assembling food baskets for families of deserving parolees. They were joined by members of the community who share in the belief that supporting the working-poor contributes to positive attitude and behavioral changes.

The gifts and money raised to purchase the food baskets were made by PEF, parole officers, Albany County's Public Defenders Office and Alternative Defenders Office, the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision staff and Kindlon Shanks and Associates.

"The parole officers PEF represents are an example of how dedicated our members are to their careers," said PEF President Susan M. Kent. "This annual event has a significant and positive effect on the recipients. The look of surprise and joy on the faces of the children who receive these gifts, and the sincere gratitude of their parents, is what inspires us to keep this unique tradition every holiday season."

This year, parole officers selected eight families who have been working and trying to get ahead, but struggling financially. Twenty-six children will receive gifts. Most of the gifts are delivered when the parole officers do home visits, but two families came to PEF today to receive their gifts.

Susan Jeffords, organizer of the event and a PEF-represented parole revocation specialist, said, "It makes a big difference when someone is trying to succeed at a new life, and receives kindness from others, especially when it comes as a surprise. Communities also benefit when parolees are no longer considered a danger, but rather productive members of society. This event helps parolees realize people care and want to help them succeed."

"This is a worthwhile project because it helps those on parole who are trying to improve and want to change their lives for the better. It also gives their families something to look forward to this holiday season, when they may not have otherwise," said Samantha E. Koolen, an attorney at Albany's Public Defenders Office.

PEF represents 54,000 professional, scientific and technical state employees, including 800 parole officers statewide.