In recent news from Chickasha, Oklahoma, a small city in the United States, a new policy has been introduced that allows citizens with traffic violations, specific municipal infractions, and overdue library books to donate food in exchange for reduced fines, thus also helping those in poverty.
According to reports from the United News International, under this new policy launched by the city court and library, from now until the end of December, residents with records of violations or fines at the city court or library can reduce traffic or municipal fines by donating food or completely waive library fines.
The city government announced on its official website that citizens can give back to society with their compassion through two “Food for Fines” programs and receive fine reductions. This program allows individuals with citations to submit non-perishable food items, with each item deducting $10 from fines, up to a maximum of $100.
Officials stated that individuals who have not paid fines or have had arrest warrants issued by law enforcement but not executed need not worry about arrest and are also eligible to participate. Those with fines exceeding $100 can arrange installment payments to cover the remaining balance.
Last year, the “Food for Fines” event held in the city had 30 residents participate, collectively deducting $2,826.50 in fines. Many participants donated food amounts exceeding the specified limit, and even residents who did not receive citations contributed to the event.
Regarding traffic or municipal fines, the aforementioned “Food for Fines” project concludes on November 26, while the library overdue book aspect will continue until the end of December in the city library.
While donated food cannot offset payments for lost or damaged books, returned or in the process of returning books can be used for deductions, and “any quantity of food donation can be used to offset any amount of library overdue fines.”
Libraries typically freeze an account when a reader owes over $6, but the facility mentioned that any amount of food donations can lift the account freeze, enabling readers to borrow books and other materials once again.
Officials stated that all food donated through the “Food for Fines” activity will be given to the Chickasha Emergency Food Pantry.
The mission of this non-profit organization is to aid impoverished individuals affected by economic hardship by providing them with food supplies. These difficulties may stem from unemployment (layoffs and downsizing), divorce, disabilities, health issues, domestic violence, homelessness, disasters, aging, and rising living costs.
In the United States, Chickasha’s “Food for Fines” program is not unique. The St. Johns County Public Library System on the central Atlantic coast of Florida has been implementing such a project since 2009 and is accepting food donations until December 21st this year.