Oklahoma inmates assist with California Wildfire victims

TAFT, Okla. (KFOR) - A group of Oklahoma women are displaying compassion to those affected by the California wildfires.

Women incarcerated at Eddie Warrior Correctional Center are putting together thousands of care packages for families hit with wildfires in Los Angeles.

According to prison officials who partnered with Greater Good Charities in Tulsa say the inmates volunteered their time to pack 15,000 care packages filled with essentials such as blankets and hygiene kits.

"My favorite part is just giving back, paying it forward," said Vanessa Simpson, one of the participating inmates. "Doing things for other people makes you feel good inside."

These efforts are just a glimpse of a broader initiative that assists with relief to those who have suffered lost in the fires.

"Everyone should be empowered to help someone else out," said Denise Bash, a spokesperson for Greater Good Charities. "We all know what it’s like to feel forgotten. Giving someone a few days of dignity is a pretty big gift to give back."

"You have to start all over, and that’s a struggle," said inmate Holly Carlile. "I’ve been at the bottom. We are happy to help people come back up where they need to be."

Prison officials say this initiative proves acts of kindness can come from even the most unexpected places.