Texas
Second Chance Program |
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 One hour of volunteer work equals meals for 105 people! Second Chance low-risk trustees save the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley, Inc. an estimated $200,000 in labor costs annually. That's means we can use the savings to buy foods for distribution to those in need. |
The Texas Second Chance Program is a joint effort between the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and TFBN members results in a “second chance” for offenders to develop job skills and give back to the community.
At the Food Bank RGV, Lopez State Jail low-risk units render aid with the product recovery process - sorting, sanitizing and packing donations prior to delivery to agencies. They also ship and receive in the warehouse. Some trustees also assist by lending their own talents like art, carpentry and other skills to their resume while assisting the Food Bank RGV.
The Food Bank RGV is grateful to be a part of the Texas Second Chance Programs, which remain running and operational due to the cooperation of the TDCJ and the warden of each participating unit.
Some trustees have expressed great pride and diligence in the duties they carry out for the community. Some have even returned to the Food Bank RGV as employees once their time with the prison is served. They say they like the close-knit atmosphere and the community service aspect of the job.
In 2006, TDCJ offenders worked 103,052 hours and handled 89,106,092 pounds of product at seven food banks in the state.
