The Missouri Department of Corrections announced today that its Restorative Justice Garden Program donated 91 tons of fresh produce in 2015 to local food pantries, shelters, churches, nursing homes and other organizations throughout the state.
“I am proud of the efforts of our staff and volunteer offenders, who have worked hard to help families in need,” said George A. Lombardi, director of the Missouri Department of Corrections. “The garden program is one of many Restorative Justice Program within the department, where offenders learn about compassion and altruistic behavior, qualities which help them on their road to rehabilitation.”
The department’s Restorative Justice Garden Program operates without the assistance of taxpayer money and grows a variety of produce every year at all 21 adult institutions and three of the community supervision centers of the Division of Probation and Parole in Missouri.
Restorative justice is a philosophy that says crimes hurt everyone in the community, not just the victims. Restorative justice ensures offenders are held accountable for the harm they caused and provides ways for offenders to help victims and the community to heal – while healing themselves to become positive, productive members of society.
Photo credit: DailyJournalOnline.com