May 2005: Through a new program to
manage food service operations at 30 correctional facilities statewide
with ARAMARK Correctional Services (ACS), the Indiana Department of
Correction will save an estimated $11.5 million a year. Department of
Correction and the Department of Administration partnered to
aggressively review the Request For Proposal (RFP) to promote
cost-effectiveness, efficiency and to ensure opportunities for
Indiana-based, minority and women-owned businesses.
“Operational
excellence, cost-effective solutions and innovative opportunities for
offenders are three elements I look for in defining the success of this
business,” said J. David Donahue, Commissioner of the Department.
The
Department of Correction remains committed to an employee-focused
process. At the time of the announcement, all food service employees
who wished to remain employed with the Department were offered
opportunities. If employees choose to remain in the food service field,
they will be given priority for employment with ARAMARK.
“We are
pleased to be able to expand our services in Indiana," said Tim
Campbell, President, ARAMARK Correctional Services. "With over 30 years
experience in the correctional services industry and currently serving
over 450 clients, we believe we are uniquely able to meet our customer
expectations while providing both a safe, secure environment for our
employees and customers and value for the taxpayers of the State of
Indiana.”
The “Inmate to Workmate” Program endorsed by ACS aligns
nicely with the Department’s existing re-entry initiatives. It is
designed to train inmates in the food service business and prepare them
for future employment in the food service industry.