211 More Than a Gift: Inside Alaska's Inmate Toy Store Ministry with Cathy Muñoz

As you well know, Christmas is a time like no other in The Salvation Army. 

There’s the red kettles, the Angel Trees, the holiday meals and so much more. 

Christmas is a season of giving, which for many of us means showering those we love with gifts. But it’s also about giving to those most in need. 

And in Juneau, Alaska, board members, donors and volunteers help to make sure inmates at Lemon Creek Correctional Center can send their children a gift, too. 

Each year, The Salvation Army in Juneau sets up an inmate toy store, offering incarcerated individuals the chance to shop for a gift specifically for their child and write a personalized note in their own handwriting. 

And as you might imagine, the stories are heartwarming. Through this effort, one inmate even reconnected with his family after being estranged for many years. 

And Cathy Muñoz has the stories to tell. 

Cathy is the Commissioner of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development in Alaska, and has served as a Salvation Army Advisory Board member in Juneau for some 25 years. 

Having long been involved in this ministry, Cathy is on the show today to share more about this seasonal effort to bring the spirit of giving behind bars and a chance to play a direct role in making the holiday season a little brighter for families.

EPISODE SHOWNOTES: Read more.

BE AFFIRMED. Get the Good Words email series.

JOIN THE HOPEFULS. Get inside the group.

WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? Take our quiz.

BE INSPIRED. Follow us on Instagram.

DO GOOD. Give to The Salvation Army.