MD Correctional Enterprises (MCE) Meat Plant Continues its Tradition of Giving Back During Thanksgiving

November 7, 2023

Contact: mark.vernarelli@maryland.gov , latoya.gray@maryland.gov

[HAGERSTOWN, MARYLAND] - The Maryland Correctional Enterprises (MCE)Meat Plant in Hagerstown is once again demonstrating its unwavering commitment to community service by providing invaluable assistance to one of the East Coast's largest charity Thanksgiving dinners.

Every year, the MCE Meat Plant dedicates its resources and expertise to defrost, debone, and cook over 200 turkeys for the Bea Gaddy Family Services in Baltimore. This remarkable tradition has continued in earnest this year as the MCE Meat Plant's incarcerated workforce once again contributed to a meaningful cause.

The Bea Gaddy Family Services has served tens of thousands of people in Baltimore on Thanksgiving for over two decades. For much of that time, they have relied on the MCE incarcerated men for support. Throughout the years, MCE has prepared thousands of turkeys for this significant event, making a positive impact on countless lives.

The MCE Meat Plant stands as a crown jewel among MCE operations, and its Meatcutting Apprenticeship Program has played a crucial role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of incarcerated individuals into society. To date, the program has graduated 122 men, many of whom have successfully secured jobs in the outside world with wages ranging from $18 to $30 per hour. The comprehensive 18-month training program, which encompasses approximately 4,000 hours, equips participants with the skills and experience necessary to rebuild their lives. Around 50 dedicated men work at the MCE Meat Plant, and on November 7, the apprentice meat cutters efficiently processed around 220 turkeys. They skillfully cut, packaged, and prepared these birds in hours, ensuring they would soon grace the tables of those less fortunate.

Ernesto, an incarcerated meat cutter, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "I feel like it's a great opportunity for me and a great way to pay back." His fellow employee, Louis, shared a similar sentiment, saying, "This is a beautiful thing to be a part of, knowing you're helping others have a Thanksgiving meal

The MD Correctional Enterprises Meat Plant's continued dedication to community service exemplifies its commitment to giving back and fostering positive change in the lives of those who need it most.

For media inquiries, please contact: mark.vernarelli@maryland.gov , latoya.gray@maryland.gov