28th June 2004
Milan-based Bambinisenzasbarre, a EUROCHIPS member, organized two “Festa dell’affettività” (Family Ties Days) on June 12 and 26 for children and imprisoned mothers and fathers at San Vittore Prison. The event, organized in collaboration with City Angels (social exclusion support group); Telefono Azzurro and Cooperativa Alice (a social services co-op), took place in the “spazio verde” inside the prison, which includes a small football field where children and fathers could play soccer. Approximately 120 children aged 0 to 14 participated during the two days. Clowns welcomed the children as they arrived, and inside there were a host of activities : painting, karaoke, face-painting. Parents and children were given the opportunity to spend more intimate quality time together as well. A group of imprisoned fathers staged The Little Prince. Refreshments were served. Children received gifts when it was time to leave, and clowns and Bambinisenzasbarre staff members helped ease the trauma often involved in separation.