HMP Inverness has been ‘feeding’ back to the community through donations of prison-grown produce to local charity, Inverness Foodstuff.
The prison has partnered up with the charity to support them in providing help, meals, and company for local people who face day to day challenges.
The first boxes of tomatoes, peas, potatoes and lettuces, grown by individuals in custody with the support of Regimes Officer Les Campbell, were delivered to the charity’s hub at the start of August.
Based at Ness Bank Church and Hilton Community Centre, Inverness Foodstuff provide meals, assistance and company for those in the community that face a variety of challenges, from food poverty to isolation and loneliness.
Their hub offers a range of services and support, including money and debt advice, clothing, haircuts, and digital inclusion services.
Weekly donations have been made throughout the summer, and plans are already underway to continue the partnership for next year’s harvest.
Scott Watson, Governor in Charge at HMP Inverness, said: “Staff at HMP Inverness take great pride in the work they do, particularly when they are extending the prison’s reach out into the community.
“Those in our care really appreciate the opportunity to give something back to the local area, and have enjoyed picking up a new skill with Les’s support.”
Chair of Inverness Foodstuff, Stuart Black said: “Inverness Foodstuff provide over 1200 lunches every month for approximately 500 people. We are delighted to be working with HMP Inverness in this initiative, being able to use fresh vegetables delivered straight from the prison garden to our kitchen has been a great addition to the food donations we receive.”