Broome County correctional facility garden harvests over 113 pounds of fresh food for CHOW

BROOME COUNTY, N.Y. (WBNG) — A correctional facility garden is bringing a wave of positivity to Broome County, giving inmates a productive outlet while helping feed the hungry.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office Correctional Facility Garden program celebrated a major harvest this week, donating over 113 pounds of fresh food to local families.

According to the BCSO, the harvest included more than 85 pounds of potatoes and 28 pounds of other vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers and peas.

The produce was distributed to families in need through a partnership with the CHOW food pantry.

Now in its third consecutive year, the gardening program is led with guidance from Master Gardener Jim Dunn and is on pace to exceed last year’s total donation of 900 pounds of produce.

Officials noted that the initiative provides constructive and productive activities for trustee workers at the facility.

The program is supported by several local partners, including the Cornell Cooperative Extension, the local Council of Carpenters, Bowman Lumber and area home improvement stores.