LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Some families are celebrating Christmas a little early this year. Louisville Metro Department of Corrections hosted a Christmas party for incarcerated mothers and their kids.

Crystal Klyce is one of those mothers and she is thrilled to be able to spend time with some of her children.

“I’m so happy I haven’t actually gotten to hold my kids in almost two years, so I’m super ecstatic,” said Klyce.

From the hugs to the kisses, Klyce says this is the best gift she could have ever received this Christmas.

“They could have just came in a room and been able to color or just, you know, sit down and talk to you now and still be happy,” Klyce shared.

Nine families took part in the program where incarcerated mothers get the chance to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones. Louisville Metro Corrections Chief Jerry Collins says it’s important to give mothers and their kids that physical connection during the holidays to help motivate them for when they get back in the community.

“It’s really to reconnect, reinforce why they’re going through programing and reentry to try to kind of break that cycle and really let them see a connect with their family, but see the reason they’re doing this. So when they get out, hopefully we can we can make a positive change,” said Collins.

Celebrating like it’s Christmas day with dinner, presents and a special guest — Santa Claus. Klyce says her children are her strength to get through each day.

“I think about I’m trying to get home to my babies. Even though you are locked up, people still love you. Made a mistake, people still love you, so don’t give up this fight to give back to your family. Fight to do what you have to do and this too shall pass,” Klyce said.

Klyce says she appreciates everybody that made this event possible. This is Louisville Metro Department of Corrections seventh year hosting the Women’s Christmas Program for women in jail.