Massachusetts Department of Correction

Over the weekend, the Department of Correction hosted a Mom & Me event at MCI-Framingham. Continuing to strengthen bonds with family, these experiences increase the success of individuals as they reenter communities. The DOC had painting, coloring, and craft activities along with a BBQ. All children left with a backpack filled with school supplies and books.

Recently, staff from the Mass. Treatment Center, Pondville Correctional Center, and Old Colony Correctional Center put together over 250 backpacks at the School on Wheels of Massachusetts, that will be delivered to schools across the state. DOC staff also donated supplies to aid in the organization's mission of supporting the academic, social, and emotional growth of students impacted by homelessness and poverty. More than 6,600 backpacks have been delivered so far this year.

“The historically low population within the DOC allows us to assess our facility needs in order to be a fiscally responsible partner in the state of Massachusetts,” said Interim Commissioner Shawn Jenkins. “The DOC will continue to empower our housed individuals to succeed upon release and we believe the closure of this facility and relocation of the current population will help them flourish.” Link to release: https://lnkd.in/d9ZzMSC7

Are you ready to start your career with the DOC? Join our recruitment team at one of their upcoming events this week to hear more on available careers!

Pondville Correctional Center welcomed three new puppies to the America’s VetDogs program. This program allows incarcerated individuals to train puppies to be used by Veterans of the armed forces for certain life skills. America’s VetDogs also operate out of MCI-Shirley and Old Colony Correctional Center. 

Recently the department’s Milford Wellness Committee held a Wellness Day. Comprising of an American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Walk, a blood drive with the Kraft Family Blood Donor Center at DFCI and BWH Bus, and Milford Nutrition offering refreshers and energizing teas. Thank you to all the staff who walked in support of bringing hope to those affected by suicide, donating blood, and our Comfort Dog Mugsy for being onsite.

This coverage from Chronicle highlights the various programs that make the Massachusetts DOC a leader in reducing recidivism. The work at our Fife & Drum restaurant gives individuals confidence and prepares them for reentry into communities. 

The DOC values our relationships across the state as we continue to recruit veterans as employees. Recently, our Recruitment Unit attended the Council of Administration meeting in Florence, Mass. where we conducted a presentation to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Auxiliary Department of Massachusetts. These opportunities enhance the DOC’s ability to showcase the various careers within our organization. 

Last week our recruitment team attended Worcester’s National Night Out! We appreciated seeing everyone out there! If you missed us in Worcester but want to learn more about the various career opportunities within the DOC, join us on Aug. 15 during a Virtual Info Session with the Department of Children and Family Services!  

Congratulations and good luck on retirement to Sgt. Steve Lydon! For 37 years, Sgt. Lydon has been a dedicated member of the DOC family and will be greatly missed! Thank you for your steadfast work, which helps keep the Commonwealth safe.