Wabash Valley Correctional Facility
Offenders Donate to Armed Forces

Carlisle, Ind. - Offenders from Wabash Valley Correctional Facility (WVCF) Purposeful Living Unit Served (PLUS) Program recently donated handmade quilts to  armed forces in collaboration with the Mission Project.

PLUS began its partnership with the Mission Project in 2016. The Mission Project distributes quilts to our armed forces through a variety of events.  The events include: the Minnesota State Fair Military Appreciation Day, the Holidays for Heroes hosted by the Mall of America, the Stand Down for Homeless Veterans, the Honor Flight to Washington DC, the Veteran's Healing Camp & the Re-Integration Camp. In addition, they work with the Air Force to provide assistance to solders oversees by airdropping care packages in countries where soldiers are fighting, and onto ships in the middle of the ocean.

Warden Brown stated, "The work they do touches countless men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting this great country. WVCF is proud to help make that possible."

On average, the PLUS program donates over 5,000 quilts each year to various organizations throughout the community. WVCF's PLUS quilt programming is currently seeking donations for new and never used fabric to continue their impactful work. If interested in donating fabric please contact Amber Sendmeyer  or Jackie Storm.

Quilts donated for the Honor Flight.  The Honor Flight is a 501 (c)(3) that takes World War II, Korean War and Vietnam veterans to Washington, DC to see the memorials and monuments.  Each veteran is presented a quilt as a thank you for their service.

Christmas gift boxes for 2019 contained a quilt, a Santa decoration, Christmas cards / letters and a pillow.

Mission Project Coordinator Mary Bergerson doing the traditional receipt picture for the items purchased for the Christmas care packages.

Background

WVCF implemented the PLUS Program in 2004.  Offenders can enter the program under one of two pathways.  One is faith-based, while the other is character-based.  There are modules designed for each.   Volunteers prove to be a huge asset in the delivery of the PLUS Program.  They do so by conducting classes, mentoring and coordinating community projects.  The PLUS program offers participants an excellent opportunity to improve their outlook on life, while playing an important role in the lives of those who depend on the quilts.

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