Jail Canteens: How Much Can Be Deposited and What’s Available
When discussing the jail canteen system, it is important to understand its role and the limitations. The jail canteen is designed to provide additional tea, snacks, and breakfast items, though it is not the main course of the prison menu. Beyond food, these canteens can also offer daily use toiletries and clothing to prisoners. The rules and restrictions surrounding jail canteens can vary widely, both within and outside of India.
West Bengal Jail Canteen Regulations
In the state of West Bengal, India, the maximum amount a prisoner can spend per week in their jail canteen is Rs 500. This amount is intentionally kept low to encourage self-sufficiency among inmates. However, it is not uncommon for prisoners to deposit Rs 2000 at a time, which can cover several weeks of expenses. These deposits are used to purchase basic necessities from the canteen.
Houston Jail Commissary in Texas
Across the globe in Texas, inmates have different options and limits for their commissary accounts. In Houston, particularly within the Harris County Jail, the average deposit ranges from $50 to $100, which is enough to survive for a week based on the food menu. It is not uncommon for family members and friends to deposit larger amounts, like $200, to extend the inmate's comfort and wellbeing during their stay. However, the commissary menu there is different from the prison meals provided by Aramark.
Food Quality and Commissary Menu
A visit to a Houston inmate revealed that the food provided by Aramark is not of high quality and is generally considered inedible by most inmates. This highlights the importance of understanding the difference between the prison-provided meals and the supplementary purchases from the commissary. The commissary provides the ability to purchase items that are not available through the official meal plan, offering inmates a chance to improve their living conditions.
Conclusion
The jail canteen and commissary systems exist to provide basic necessities for prisoners, with limitations designed to foster a sense of responsibility and independence among inmates. While the exact dollar amounts and allowable items can vary, these systems play a crucial role in the daily life of individuals serving time.