California federal probation officers partner with San Francisco archdiocese for Christmas outreach to inmates

Federal probation officers teamed up with the Archdiocese of San Francisco’s Restorative Justice Ministry to prepare Christmas cards and holiday treat bags for inmates in San Francisco County jails.

The ministry planned to deliver personalized messages and treats Dec. 12, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, to inmates in jails in San Bruno and San Francisco, the Archdiocese reported.

The preparation took place at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center, where 20 probation officers and support staff wrote cards and packed bags with snacks, including chips, gummies, and granola bars. Volunteers worked in a festive setting with Christmas music playing and decorative lighting illuminating the room.

Katrina Chu, a supervising probation officer, initiated the collaboration after learning about the Archdiocese’s annual Christmas outreach.

“We just felt this was a different way to give back,” Chu said.

Deputy Chief Aaron Tam said that the Northern District of California U.S. Probation Office selects a community service project to participate in each year. He explained how this initiative aligns with their daily jobs. 

“This is sort of the work we do, from a different side,” Tam said. “We’re grateful for the opportunity.”

In addition to the probation officers, local parishioners participated by writing cards, further contributing to the effort.

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