Prisoners were asked to submit the names and addresses of their children, and what they would like to give their children for Christmas. The Angel Trees were set up in shopping malls all across America. On the branches hung little angels with the name, age, and clothing size of the prisoner's children. Shoppers chose an angel, purchased the requested gifts or an alternative gift, and presented it to the volunteer sitting beside the tree. A few days before Christmas the gift is delivered to the prisoner's child in the name of the parent.
Excitement abounds as prisoners ask each other what they are requesting for their children.
Beautiful Christmas cards in multi-colored envelopes begin arriving, resulting in an atmosphere not felt during any other season of the year. Prisoners tape their Christmas cards on the walls of their cells for others to see, and each day re-read the hand written messages inside. A few days earlier, the chaplain has gone throughout the institution making sure that everyone who wanted one was given a card to send home. Chaplain's assistants decorated the chapel with evergreen boughs, bright banners and a live Christmas tree. On Christmas Eve, the prison factory closes early and visiting hours are extended.