Calipatria, CA — In a powerful show of community support, Calipatria State Prison (CAL) raised over $4,400 to aid Los Angeles County residents impacted by recent wildfires.
Following the deployment of CAL’s fire chief and two fire captains to assist with the Palisades Fire, the institution’s incarcerated population was inspired to contribute to recovery efforts. Many of those incarcerated at CAL have personal ties to the Los Angeles area and felt compelled to act.
Led by Community Resources Manager Heather Duarte and in partnership with the United Way of Imperial County, a facility-wide donation drive was launched. Through a voluntary submission of Trust Account Withdrawal Slips, a friendly competition between housing units quickly gained momentum. Within just 11 days, the initiative raised $4,432.
On February 14, the donation was presented to United Way Executive Director Ken Wuytens, who commended the effort.
“It’s incredibly meaningful to see this level of empathy and civic responsibility,” said Wuytens. “The support shown by Calipatria State Prison is both generous and inspiring.”
Incarcerated participant Ronneld Johnson reflected on the experience: “This was a meaningful opportunity for us to give back and support our communities in a positive way.”
This initiative underscores the capacity for compassion, generosity, and community engagement—even within the confines of incarceration.
In a powerful show of community support, Calipatria State Prison (CAL) raised over $4,400 to aid Los Angeles County residents impacted by recent wildfires.
Following the deployment of CAL’s fire chief and two fire captains to assist with the Palisades Fire, the institution’s incarcerated population was inspired to contribute to recovery efforts. Many of those incarcerated at CAL have personal ties to the Los Angeles area and felt compelled to act.
Led by Community Resources Manager Heather Duarte and in partnership with the United Way of Imperial County, a facility-wide donation drive was launched. Through a voluntary submission of Trust Account Withdrawal Slips, a friendly competition between housing units quickly gained momentum. Within just 11 days, the initiative raised $4,432.
On February 14, the donation was presented to United Way Executive Director Ken Wuytens, who commended the effort.
“It’s incredibly meaningful to see this level of empathy and civic responsibility,” said Wuytens. “The support shown by Calipatria State Prison is both generous and inspiring.”
Incarcerated participant Ronneld Johnson reflected on the experience: “This was a meaningful opportunity for us to give back and support our communities in a positive way.”
This initiative underscores the capacity for compassion, generosity, and community engagement—even within the confines of incarceration.
