The Congressional Spouses Foundation, Inc. (CSFI) headed by its President Emelita Alvarez turned-over to BJMP the trust fund amounting to Php 500,000 intended for the livelihood programs of inmates yesterday.

The activity coincides with the opening of MCJ’s Munting Aklatan, CSFI in partnership with the Department of Education brought sets of books for the Alternative Learning System of inmates.

“It is important that we provide the inmates livelihood programs and we are thankful that the Congressional Spouses Foundation extend its support to us ”, BJMP Chief Serafin P Barretto Jr said

CSFI has been supporting the “One Jail, One Product” program of the BJMP for almost a year now.

“Jails should be places of second chances and we are here to support that goal by providing our inmates a sufficient capital to pursue their crafts”, CSFI President Emelita Alvarez said during interview.

Livelihood programs are critical component of rehabilitation among inmates prior to their reintegration back to their respective communities.

“Lack of sustainable livelihood causes inmates to return in their usual criminal activities. While they are under our care, the BJMP and other service providers like CSFI, CHEERS and TESDA are equipping them with necessary skills training and livelihood support”, Barretto emphasized.

The BJMP has been implementing training to enhance inmates’ livelihood skills and craftsmanship.

In Manila City Jail Male and Female Dormitories where the turn-over ceremony was held, inmates are involved into customized coffin-making, painting, pastry-making, landscaping project, welding, carpentry, cosmetology, massage and reflexology and creation of designer bead bags.