Allgemein
This year once again, Connecting Hearts’ Christmas wish initiative, “A Heart’s Desire,” is bringing joy and a sense of closeness to children of incarcerated parents. What began in 2023 is now continuing across borders, driven by the belief that no child should be forgotten at Christmas.
This year, Connecting Hearts was able to partner with two very different institutions: the Billwerder Correctional Facility in Hamburg, Germany, and the Fort Smith Women’s Prison in Canada’s Northwest Territories. Despite the great geographical distance between them, they are united by a shared goal: to offer children hope and to show them that they are seen.
In total, 97 children will receive a Christmas surprise through this year’s initiative. In both facilities, incarcerated parents selected gifts for their children from prepared wish lists. With the support of correctional staff, all wishes were carefully recorded — creating a special moment in which closeness became possible despite separation.
While older children most often wished for wireless headphones, younger ones will soon be delighted by baby dolls and LEGO Technic sets. Each wish represents more than just a gift; it is a meaningful sign of connection.
Now “Santa” is on his way to ensure that all packages arrive in time for Christmas — bringing warmth and a sense of closeness to places where it is especially needed during the holiday season.
