Inmates raise money for charity

Published 11:30 pm Friday, December 7, 2007

KENNEWICK — A pair of inmates at a minimum-security prison in Connell gave new meaning to the phrase “ice cream social.”

Deciding they wanted to give back to the community, the inmates bought ice cream from a local grocery store, then sold it at a 100 percent markup to more than 600 inmates at the Coyote Ridge Corrections Center. The result: a $500.88 donation to the Sexual Assault Response Center in Kennewick.

“I don’t think anyone in this whole institution didn’t eat ice cream that night,” said Jeff Crenshaw, 47, who’s been incarcerated for nearly two years for second-degree assault and possessing a weapon.

Crenshaw planned the fundraiser with Pete O’Brien, 37, who has logged nearly 20 years behind bars. Crenshaw has been at Coyote Ridge for about eight years for burglary and delivering methamphetamine.

“It takes the stigma of ‘convict’ off of us and is a way to give back to the community,” O’Brien said.

Ten flavors — including raspberry and orange sherbet for diabetic offenders — were offered. Tin roof sundae, wild blackberry and chocolate chip cookie dough were the favorites.

Brandy Peters, educational outreach coordinator with the Sexual Assault Response Center, said the money would be used to help pay for educational programs geared toward children.

“(We know) how difficult it has to be to be restricted and find a way to reach out,” Peters told the offenders as she accepted the check Thursday. “We’re proud of you guys. Thank you for helping out.”

She also said she was impressed that the inmates were willing to contribute their limited money. Inmates generally make 35 cents an hour working in the prison, though a few lucky ones make as much as $1.10 an hour.

At 35 cents an hour, an inmate would have to work 12 hours to buy a half-gallon of ice cream that sold for $4.20.

The inmates have raised money in the past for Tri-City Coats for Kids.