For the seventh consecutive year, Joe Welsh and his wife Angel are ensuring every inmate at the Daviess County Detention Center receives a simple but meaningful Christmas gift: a case of ramen noodles.
The tradition was born out of Welsh’s desire to give back to the community and has grown into an effort supported by Kroger on Starlite Drive, donors, and volunteers. Each of the approximately 700 inmates at the detention center receives a case of ramen noodles containing 12 packs.
“I wanted to do something for Christmas, but it’s tough with the restrictions on what you can bring into a jail,” Welsh said. “I thought back to my own time in jail and remembered how valuable ramen noodles were when you were hungry. They’re affordable, allowed by the jail, and something inmates truly appreciate.”
The project began as a modest effort, with cases of noodles priced at $2 each. As costs have risen to $3.69 per case, Welsh has relied on the community’s generosity to keep the tradition alive.
“We live in an amazing community,” Welsh said. “Most of the people who donate don’t even know me, but they step up every year to help make this happen. It’s incredible.”
Daviess County Jailer Art Maglinger emphasized the impact of the annual ramen delivery, particularly for inmates who cannot afford commissary items.
“Some of our inmates are indigent, so outside of their meals, they don’t have anyone to provide for them,” Maglinger said. “This gift is a huge blessing and means so much to the inmates. It boosts morale and reminds them that someone cares.”
Maglinger noted that the tradition has become something inmates look forward to, adding that small gestures like these can have a meaningful impact during the holidays.
Welsh said he leans on Kroger on Starlite Drive to facilitate the bulk purchase of the noodles. He also credited the detention center staff for their partnership and flexibility in allowing the program to continue.
“We’re so thankful to Kroger, the jail staff, and everyone who helps make this happen,” Welsh said. “At a time when these men and women feel the weight of being away from their families, we want them to know someone is thinking about them and loves them.”
Welsh said the gesture is simple but meaningful, especially during what can be the loneliest time of year for those behind bars.
“The jailer always tells me how much it lifts morale, and that means the world to me,” he said. “More than anything else, I just want to feed them, encourage them, and let them know they’re not alone.”
