Redgranite inmates refurbish wheelchairs

Restored equipment sold at reduced cost

REDGRANITE, Wis. — Inmates at the Redgranite Correctional Institution have refurbished hundreds of wheelchairs, scooters and other medical equipment.

The nonprofit WheelChair Recycling Program sells the restored equipment at a reduced cost to those in need. The inmates also restore state-owned wheelchairs.

Industries specialist Christine Trinrud says prisoners at Redgranite have restored more than 700 wheelchairs, power scooters, strollers and walkers since October.

The inmates’ work is under the umbrella of Badger State Industries and the Department of Corrections. Thirteen industries are operated at 11 correctional facilities in Wisconsin. The prisoners make license plates, but also manufacture furnishings for offices, classrooms, libraries and dining areas. They also operate a textile shop where clothes and mattresses are made.

Inmates at correctional farms in Wisconsin raise cows, produce dairy products for prisoners and steers for resale.