The Mothers’ Union in Suffolk (MU) is bringing festive cheer to prisoners at HMP Highpoint – by sending them all Christmas cards.
The organisation has been sending cards to inmates at the category C prison, near Newmarket, for the last 20 years. The cards go to every prisoner at HMP Highpoint, regardless of faith, a week before Christmas. Extra cards are also supplied for prisoners to write and send to their family and friends.
Sue Norrington, MU member, said: “We know that prisoners who maintain supportive links with their families are less likely to reoffend when they leave prison. We are pleased to donate birthday cards and notelets to facilitate regular communication with their wives and children. Most of all, MU members pray for prisoners, their families, prison staff and the chaplaincy team at Highpoint.”
Every year, MU members provide the Christmas card team with a steady supply of cards, which are then remounted onto blank cards and sent out with a festive message. This year, the MU has prepared more than 1,500 cards for delivery.
The Revd Huw Williams, a Chaplain at HMP Highpoint, said: “The recognition that someone on the outside is thinking of them and cares for them enough to send a card is very welcome – it’s uplifting. It is a particularly difficult time of year for prisoners and receiving an unexpected Christmas card can bring a smile and a cheerful ‘Happy Christmas’. The Mothers’ Union have also sent us beautiful colourful knitted hats which are greatly appreciated, especially in winter. I think there is an element of ‘Look! See what I’ve got!’ The project is wonderful work from people who really care – thank you so much.”
Mothers’ Union is a Christian mission organisation working through grassroots membership to support families and communities around the world. There are almost 600 Mothers’ Union members in the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich.
For more on the Mothers’ Union in Suffolk, see www.musuffolk.org.uk