MCSP acting Warden Patrick Covello called upon his leadership team to inspire hope, raise funds for charity, and help local businesses.
In the small town of Ione, business owners are feeling the pressure. To use the prison’s foot print for good, the prison’s leadership team answered the call with a food sale fundraiser. Even under normal conditions, food sales test staff’s creative thinking.
With coronavirus protocols in mind, a food sale could create revenue for local businesses, afford the population an opportunity to give back to the community and incentivize good behavior.
After much consideration, the team developed a plan for the fundraiser, while incorporating the CDCR and CCHCS COVID-19 guidelines. Meetings were held with the vendor to ensure personal protective equipment was used.
The Inmate Advisory Council and self-help facilitators reminded the participants of the importance of wearing masks, washing their hands and practicing physical distancing.
Executive staff ensured resources were provided such as place markers for physical distancing. Cleaning supplies were used to wipe down tables after each use during the event and custody staff controlled the flow of traffic. One facility even had an incarcerated band playing festive music to ease the mood on the yard.
Overall the sale brought in $30,000 for Paisano’s Pizzeria of Ione/Jackson. In addition, over $10,000 was raised for the Ione Home Coming non-profit organization.
In all, 500 participated in the the food sale.
By Lance Eshelman, Community Resources Manager