Program Benefits

click here to download 2001 Annual Report pdf

to society - Rigorous research demonstrates that participation in prison industries/vocational training programs has a positive effect on post-release employment and recidivism for up to 12 years following release. Inmates who worked in prison industries or completed vocational and apprenticeship programs were 24 percent less likely to recidivate than non-program participants and 14 percent more likely to be gainfully employed. These programs had an even greater positive impact on minority offenders, who are at the greatest risk of recidivism. FPI is entirely self-sustaining and operates at no cost to the taxpayer.

to the courts, crime victims, and inmate families - In FY 2001, inmates who worked in FPI factories contributed approximately $2.9 million of their earnings toward meeting their financial obligations, e.g., court-ordered fines, child support, and/or restitution. Many inmates also contributed to the support and welfare of their families by sending home a portion of their earnings.

to thousands of incarcerated men and women in Federal prisons - For many inmates, working in Federal Prison Industries represents an opportunity to learn a marketable skill and gain valuable work experience that will substantially enhance their ability to successfully reintegrate into society following release from prison. The program teaches inmates pro-social values including the value of work, responsibility, and the need to respect and work with others. Many inmates gain a sense of dignity and self-worth that they had lost or never before experienced.

to private sector businesses - During FY 2001, FPI purchased approximately $426 million of raw materials, supplies, equipment, and services from private sector businesses. Over 66 percent of FPI’s purchases were from small businesses, including businesses owned by women, minorities, and those who are disadvantaged.

to the Bureau of Prisons - FPI contributes significantly to the safety and security of Federal correctional facilities by keeping inmates constructively occupied. Inmates who participate in work programs and vocational training are less likely to engage in institutional misconduct, thereby enhancing the safety of staff and other inmates.

"I have learned I am a very valuable person and I have skills that I never knew I had till I came to work at UNICOR."

FEMALE INMATE
Cut & Sew Factory,
FCI Dublin, California