For over 25 years, Maryland Correctional Enterprises' partnership with Bea Gaddy Family Centers helped feed those in need in the Greater Baltimore Metropolitan area. Bea Gaddy, a name many in Baltimore are familiar with, was not only a Baltimore City Council Member but an advocate for those in need. This partnership is part of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Service's restorative justice project – giving individuals the opportunity to give back to the community.
How is it done?
Annually, MCE participants debone and cook turkeys in preparation for a Thanksgiving dinner hosted by Bea Gaddy for families in need. Preparing the turkeys begins with the drop-off of the turkeys at our Meat Plant in Hagerstown, MD.
Once dropped off, the program participants begin preparing the turkeys for consumption. The turkeys are defrosted, injected with liquid turkey seasoning, deboned and parted by hand, and cooked in 3 smokehouses.
Once they finish cooking the turkeys, they are picked up and given to families in need throughout the Greater Balitmore Metropolitan area.
About the Program
This individuals who participate in this project are well trained. MCE provides a two-year program in partnership with the Maryland Department of Labor (MDOL) and Hagerstown Community College.
The program consists of:
- 288 classroom hours
- 4,000 on the job training hours
At the completion of this program, they will receive an apprenticeship certificate. At MCE, we provide workforce development that helps to prepare participants for reentry into society. Not only do we teach them hard skills but we also teach them soft skills, such as work ethic and teamwork. The training coupled with the professional work environment helps to prepare participants to secure jobs post-release. Tyrone, a former MCE Meat Plant participant, secured a job at Whole Foods, post - release. This is just one of the many examples of how we are able to help individuals be successful.
Written by: Nicole C.