Inmates leave jail, head to the kitchen

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - A program in Montgomery County is helping inmates with their rehabilitation, taking them from jail to the kitchen.

Thursday was graduation day for the Montgomery County inmates who are a part of the Into Works Program administered by The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and supported by Judge Timothy O'Connell.

Launched in 2010, the 12 week program teaches non-violent offenders food safety and management skills while incarcerated in the Montgomery County jail.

"Upon completion of the program the inmates are given a certificate of completion that is sanctioned by the National Restaurant Association," said Judge Timothy O'Connell.

With family members in the audience, the inmates proudly received their ServSafe certificate and a new start in life in the food service industry.

"The job market is pretty tight, so this just gives us an opportunity to have a leg up among the other applicants," said Terrence Coleman, ServSafe graduate.

"It feels really good that I have this and that I can actually put this on an application and could help me ..potentially get a good job," said Scott Polson, ServSafe graduate.

They work in conjunction with Aramark Food Services which originated the ServSafe certification program.

Program supervisor, Major Daryl Wilson, says the program gives the inmates an advantage as they re-enter our community.

"This certificate has weight to it. If they present the certificate in any culinary arts or restaurant will definitely give them one step up above those who don't have," said Major Daryl Wilson, Montgomery County Sheriff's Office.

Since its launch in 2010, 14 inmates have completed the program with at least two people going on to get jobs in the food industry.