Over a decade ago, the newly elected sheriff in Worcester County aimed to revive a program at the Worcester County Jail and House of Correction. That program not only honored the rich farming history of Massachusetts but also focused on modern methods of rehabilitating inmate populations.

Today, Sheriff Lewis Evangelidis is proud that the successful inmate-run organic farm program is not only thriving but benefiting those in need throughout Worcester County.

“Each year the Worcester County Sheriff’s Organic Farm Program reaches out to us to donate their organic produce,” said Wachusett Food Pantry Board President Pamela Guild. “They have been doing this for many years, and we are so thankful. Our recipients really appreciate the fresh farm produce that we can provide thanks to the sheriff and his team.”

As part of the House of Corrections’ Work Release Program, qualified inmates are allowed to tend to the grounds of the facility, including the 18-acre farm. The produce harvested by inmates benefits numerous nonprofits throughout Worcester County, such as food banks, senior centers, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and veteran organizations.

“I go down to the farm and talk to the men during the course of the summer” said Evangelidis about the all-volunteer farming program. “The men learn new skills, realize meaningful daily activities, create a work history, and create a sense of dignity and self-respect. They engage in a full day’s work for the benefit of others - and give back to the community.”

“We’re so appreciative of the fresh produce that the Sheriff’s Department drops off for our food pantry,” said Cindy Love, Director of the Paxton Council on Aging. “They are also very supportive of our programming throughout the year.” 

Evangelidis said that the produce is also provided to the inmate population within the facility, which is a savings of between $20,000 to $30,000 a year.

 “We are fortunate to have the land and the resources to support the Organic Farm program,” said Evangelidis. “We have put together a great team here that has put in a lot of effort to develop this popular program.”

 Inmates eligible to join the work-release program are classified as low-risk and nonviolent. Those who qualify and opt to participate earn “good time” credits each month for their behavior and involvement. Typically, inmates work between 10 to 25 hours a week.

Evangelidis says that in 2025, the program distributed about 40,000 pounds of organic produce to nonprofits in Worcester County. “Our goal is not to compete with farmstands or stores,” explained Evangelidis, “but to help support nonprofits that serve the needy.”

“We hope that this program continues to flourish,” continued Guild from the Wachusett Food Pantry, “and we look forward to receiving their donations in the coming years.”

Since Evangelidis took office in 2011, he has expanded the organic farm from ten to its current 18 acres, the largest organic farm at a Massachusetts correctional facility. “The farm is huge,” said Evangelidis. “We couldn’t accommodate more land.”

As far as a run for statewide office in 2026? Evangelidis laughed and said that while he would not rule anything out, he is happy where he is now. “I love this job,” said Evangelidis. “The team we have developed here makes a difference. We help rehabilitate and transform people’s lives and we help to make the community a better and safer place. I’m not inclined to do anything else.” 

Martha Akstin contributed to this article.