This holiday season, the Lawton Correctional Facility is embracing the spirit of Christmas in a way that’s bringing joy and a sense of community to staff and inmates alike.
“I was really excited we get to do this,” said Kiesha Greenfield, a staff member at the facility. “The staff and inmates like coming in and seeing it. It makes us all excited for Christmas.”
The collaborative decorations, baking and crafting have transformed the facility – fostering camaraderie and shifting attitudes among those living and working there.
“I put up the lights and covered up their doors with decorations,” said inmate Pedro Guzman.
“It’s good. It’s positive. It’s constructive,” added another inmate. “Of course, my heart is always joyful because it’s filled with the love of Jesus Christ.”
These shared activities are building bridges of understanding and compassion. From intricate woodworking to artistic decorations, the creativity of both staff and inmates is shining brightly this season.
“We’ve got very talented people,” said Warden Jim Farris. “Whether it’s from art or the woodshop, all kinds of things—they don’t always get the opportunity. We are trying to bring out all those opportunities for the individuals here.”
The holiday spirit is a powerful unifier in a place often associated with isolation.
“I just think if we can get these guys to come together at this time of year, it helps them a lot,” said staff member Cheryl Clark.
At Lawton Correctional Facility, Christmas is not just a festive occasion – it’s a testament to the power of community, compassion and the enduring spirit of the holidays.
“It makes people happy, and I think we’ve been working toward that for a while now,” Greenfield said. “From Lawton Correctional, Merry Christmas!"
