WEST BOYLSTON, Mass. — Inmates from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) organic farm work release program harvested the first pumpkins of the fall season. The harvest will be distributed to senior centers, schools, local organizations, and back into the jails to feed the inmate population.
Sheriff Lew Evangelidis started the organic farm program at an overgrown pasture outside the Worcester County Jail. The land was converted into a larger than 13-acre farm with support from the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture.
Officials said using the produce for community distribution and meals inside the jail has saved the county and taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars. A 2014 report noted the program saved more than $20,000 in food costs.
“Our organic farming program has been thriving for over a decade,”WCSO officials said. “Inmates gain valuable skills through our farming activities, while our communities benefit from the fresh organic produce we grow.”
The program is open to low-risk, nonviolent inmates with good behavior records. Officials say access to healthier meals and farm work has improved mental health for participants while preparing them for reentry into society
Incarcerated individuals reclaim their dignity through the program and define for themselves what reentering the world looks like.
“Knowing that I am able to use my time in jail to give back to the community is truly a gift,” said Justin, an inmate in the program. “The farm gives my time meaning and purpose.”
Another inmate, Jason Ventolieri, told Worcester County that he felt prepared to take on the world after his release. James Gauthier, another inmate, emphasized that he could prove himself as a contributing member to society through the program.
The organic farming program helps inmates gain employment access, improve their social functioning, and reduce the chance of recidivism, or repeat offending.
WCSO said the program reduces recidivism, addresses food insecurity and provides fresh produce to more than 70 local organizations, including food pantries, soup kitchens, churches, senior centers and veterans’ facilities. Current crops include corn, tomatoes, acorn squash, zucchini and green beans.
