Rogers County Sheriff's Office Turns Part Of Jail Into Food Bank

The Rogers County Sheriff's Office launched a new program to battle hunger, by transforming part of the jail into a food bank.

You might think a county jail is an odd place to put a food pantry, but the sheriff's office said it's all about convenience and easy access for Rogers County's hungry families.

All of this food and toiletries are free for those who need them and anyone who needs a few supplies for their family to get through a tough time.

"They just simply come here, they show up, take what items they need. If they feel so obliged to do so, they can leave items," said Rogers County Sheriff's Office Maj. Coy Jenkins. 

Jenkins said his wife came up with the idea for a food pantry inside the jail.

It's actually the ideal place because it's in the heart of Claremore and it's safe, he said. 

"It is always open," Jenkins said. "It's a safe environment. We have cameras, a surveillance camera here, so people can come and go and not feel threatened."

The pantry will stay stocked thanks to Good Samaritans like the members of the Will Rogers Masonic Lodge.

Inmates will help sort the items and keep them organized and they're preparing more pantries. 

The sheriff's office is partnering with community members to open more food banks at local schools.

Advocate Crystal Campbell says children are suffering the most and the problem is getting worse.

"We knew hunger was out there, but it was really kind of starting to slap us in the face where these kids are vocalizing that they're hungry," Campbell said. 

RCSO said this is just the first step, but it's a good one.

"It's the best part of small towns, you know? It shows people in small towns are smart and caring and recognize the needs of others," said Sheriff Scott Walton. 

If you need any of these supplies or if you'd like to make a donation, stop by the Rogers County Jail.