When natural disasters strike, participants in the Challenge Incarceration Program (CIP) at Minnesota Correctional Facility (MCF)-Togo step up to help communities in need. The Town of Cook, Minn., was recently overwhelmed by the devastating impacts of damaging winds, hail, rain, and flood waters. Many homes and businesses were damaged from the severe weather, and the community needed help recovering from historic flood levels.
As is often the case with communities impacted by storm damage, MCF-Togo jumped into action to support the people of northern Minnesota. CIP work crews spent multiple days helping with cleanup and restoration efforts.
MCF-Togo coordinated with the American Red Cross and Cook Lions Club to relocate a relief center. The crews also cleared debris from Veterans Riverfront Park and were complimented by many members of the community. The CIP work crew also helped at the flood damaged Cook library by removing the oak bookcases to help the restoration process move forward.
One of the CIP participants said, “It felt really good to be seen for doing good work as a person and not as a criminal.”
When Minnesotans call for help, MCF-Togo and CIP participants will continue to answer the call to support communities in need.
