Cathel initiated the program immediately after returning from a warden's conference in Texas, where he learned about a similar endeavor in another part of the country.

"We've been able to accomplish a great deal in the course of just a few weeks," Cathel said. "There's plenty of credit to spread around. The Policemen's Benevolent Association Local 105. The staff, both custody and civilian, at our facility. And, naturally, the inmates, whose work has been outstanding."

The inmates used scrap wood, which otherwise would have been discarded, to create the toys. Originally, it was hoped that they would be able to produce 100 toys prior to the holidays. As it turned out, the inmates nearly doubled the production goal.

On December 21, nearly 200 toys made by inmates in Southern State's building trades/woodworking program were donated to kids at three different sites. The first stop for Cathel and company was the Cumberland Family Shelter in Vineland, followed by a visit to the hospital. The final stop of the excursion was the Ronald McDonald House in Camden -- a "home away from home" for the families of seriously ill children receiving treatment at nearby hospitals.

"The looks on the faces of the kids, well, that's what Christmas is all about," said Senior Correction Officer Greg Cugino, a member of Cathel's entourage. "It's so moving to see how happy you're making the children. It's like you've given them a million bucks."

There were dollhouses and building blocks, wagons and a seesaws. And, of course, there were high chairs, boats and trains like the ones Jessica Maldonado and her siblings received.

"This is certainly a pleasant surprise," said Christine Maldonado, Jessica's mother. "Not only am I grateful, but I'm really impressed. The quality of the toys is exceptional."

That quality, Cathel related, is one of the primary reasons he is so enthusiastic about Toys for Children.

"The inmates feel a sense of accomplishment as well as a sense of giving back to the community," the administrator said. "Many of them have kids of their own, so a project like this enables them to experience the gratification that comes from connecting with children. Furthermore, they're using skills they can utilize once they're released.

"This is a worthwhile program in so many ways," he concluded.

According to Cathel, plans already are in place to make Toys for Children a permanent, year-round program at the Delmont facility.

"Today," he declared as he was about to enter the hospital room of a young patient, "is just the beginning."