The Michigan Department of Corrections has been making significant contributions through its various horticulture programs and recreational gardens. These efforts have not only provided fresh vegetables and pumpkins but have also instilled a sense of community and purpose among the incarcerated individuals.

Impact of Horticulture Programs

The Muskegon Correctional Facility horticulture program achieved its largest harvest ever this year, donating nearly 25,000 pounds of produce to multiple food pantries and organizations. The Women’s Huron Valley horticulture program has been equally productive, supplying over 15,000 pounds of vegetables to Food Gatherers. These programs not only teach valuable skills but also give back to the community.

Vocational programs like horticulture help students gain the knowledge and confidence needed for success after release. As Kyle Kaminski, Offender Success Administrator, stated, “The horticulture program is especially impactful as it provides a sense of community as we all work together for the greater good of our communities.”

MDOC operates two CTE vocational programs in horticulture – one at Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility and one at Muskegon Correctional Facility. In addition, 17 facilities host recreational gardens where individuals with a positive institutional record contribute their time and efforts.

Gardens Across the State

Lakeland Correctional Facility donated 20,032 pounds to the Branch Area Food Pantry. Kinross Correctional Facility donated 10,694 pounds to the Sault Ste. Marie Salvation Army, including 560 pounds of pumpkins. Cooper Street Correctional Facility donated 8,077 pounds to the Salvation Army in Jackson. Gus Harrison Correctional Facility donated 5,222 pounds to Fishes and Loaves Soup Kitchen, ProMedica Veggie Mobile, and Daily Bread Food Pantry. Thumb Correctional Facility donated 2,000 pounds to Stone Soup Pantry in Lapeer. Carson City Correctional Facility donated over 1,000 pounds to the Beacon of Hope Family Care Center in St. Johns. Newberry Correctional Facility donated over 600 pounds of produce, with 307 pounds of pumpkins going to the Yooper Youth Halloween Carnival.

These donations have been crucial in providing food for families in need across the state. As MDOC Director Heidi E. Washington said, “These donations wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our gardeners and the MDOC staff.”

Pumpkin Project Fundraiser

The Alger Correctional Facility’s pumpkins have been used for an annual Pumpkin Project fundraiser. Participants use their creativity to paint the pumpkins, which are then sold to raise funds for the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight. This year’s fundraiser raised $550 for the organization that helps fly Upper Michigan veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials.

MDOC gardens have been donating food and raising funds for various charities for over a decade. Non-profits and pantries interested in partnering for the 2025 growing season can reach out to Jenni Riehle, MDOC Public Information Officer at 517-241-0363.