Dear Editor: I am writing once again to thank you for your gift to Families, Fathers, and Children, the prison ministry program operating out of St. Augustine parish, Park Slope. Because of your continued support and generosity, this program is able to provide much needed care and support to families, especially children who have fathers in prison.

Families, Fathers, and Children sponsors holiday parties for the children throughout the year, as well as transportation to prisons Upstate for the families. Once a year, it also organizes an art show to display the work of these children. Throughout the year, the leaders of the program also teach parenting classes to the men in prison. Because of the Bright Christmas Fund, all the above and much more can happen each year.

FATHER THOMAS AHERN

South Ozone Park

Editor’s Note: Father Ahern, pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, South Ozone Park, is the former pastor of St. Augustine’s, Park Slope, and continues as a board member of Families, Father and Children.

Dear Editor: On behalf of the young men and women scholars here at Boys Hope Girls Hope of New York, thank you for The Tablet’s generous donation in response to our Christmas request. It is because of the commitment from our community partners that we are able to offer invaluable resources and opportunities for academically capable students who would not have had access otherwise, and we greatly appreciate your belief in our mission.

BHGHNY has expanded upon the model of our international affiliate to create a boarding program, where scholars from low-income and disadvantaged backgrounds will have an environment where they are surrounded by consistent and individualized academic and personal support.

Our boys from Bishop Loughlin H.S. and girls from Cristo Rey Brooklyn who complete our College Readiness Program and subsequently our Summer Enrichment Academy go on to graduate at the top of their class, and to attend some of the nation’s top universities on full academic scholarships.

MALIK FALL

Flatbush

Editor’s Note: Malik Fall is the CEO of Boys Hope Girls Hope of New York.