WTSP Staff & Offenders Bring Holiday Joy To Local Nursing Homes

HENNING - This week, staff and offenders from West Tennessee State Penitentiary (WTSP) in Henning worked together to bring some holiday spirit to several West Tennessee nursing homes. Offenders in the leatherwork program at WTSP hand crafted dozens of individual treat bags out of leather, which staff filled with candy and mints. Counselors from the prison then loaded up the goodies, and made visits to the three nursing homes in the Ripley area to hand them out. At each stop, the TDOC team visited, sang carols, and handed out the treat bags to excited residents.

“We are committed to the communities we serve,” says WTSP Warden Jonathan Lebo. “Outreach like this is not only great for the residents, it gives both our staff and offenders an opportunity to give back. The leatherwork program is more than just a creative outlet; it gives offenders marketable skills and discipline they can use to find employment upon release.”

More than 90% of incarcerated offenders will eventually be released back into our communities. Reducing recidivism through evidence-based programs and community service is a central element of the Tennessee Department of Correction’s non-negotiable mission to ensure and enhance public safety.