Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) team members have gotten into the giving spirit with a number of fundraisers this holiday season.
Team members at the Lincoln Correctional Center (LCC) collected donations of money and toys in partnership with the Lincoln Police Department’s (LPD) Santa Cop program. Santa Cop was started in 1980 to help the children of Lincoln who “fell through the cracks” of existing programs. LCC has partnered with LPD for the past three years.
At the Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP) team members collected gifts for the CEDARS Home for Children. Some of these gifts included Lego sets, Monster High dolls, volleyballs with knee pads, UNO card games and much more.
The Employee Activities Committee (EAC) at the Nebraska Correctional Youth Facility’s (NCYF) sponsored a Giving Box with donations benefitting the open door mission. Team members donated an array of items ranging from nonperishable food, dishes, pots and pans, toiletries, bedding and towels.
Central Office’s (CO) EAC also sponsored a Giving Tree to help those in need. CO team members had the opportunity to bring joy to both children and seniors, as donations supported CEDARS and The Waterford Assisted Living and Memory Care Center. 
“NDCS team members recognize the importance of giving back,” NDCS Director Scott R. Frakes said. “Their compassion shines all year, but is especially bright during the holiday season.”