Urban Farming Initiative for Reentering Citizens

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2010

The Urban Farming Initiative for Reentering Citizens is an innovative program that removes blight, provides locally grown produce and engages reentering citizens in a positive and productive way. Studies show that creating a situation where returning prisoners can participate in programs that demonstrate results-based outcomes contribute to a successful transition. By having the opportunity to provide food for their families, their residential centers and community, reentering citizens feel a sense of accomplishment and greater self-worth. In 2004, 34 percent of offenders released to parole returned to Wayne County Michigan. This number continues to rise. Clearly, providing positive transitional programs is essential to the long-term vitality of our community. Therefore, Wayne County has partnered with the Urban Farming nonprofit organization, six residential facilities, the City of Detroit and the Wayne County Michigan State University Extension Program to coordinate and facilitate this program. Since it began in 2004, the program has grown and is now operating six Urban Farm sites. In 2009, 50 returning prisoners participated in the Urban Farming Initiative, contributed 1,155 hours of volunteer service and produced seven tons of food for the community.