Foodservice workers’ jobs in limbo as Aramark decision looms

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — More than two dozen jobs are in limbo as Shelby County considers outsourcing the prison’s food service.

Commissioners will decide whether to extend a contract with Aramark Food Services, which already serves the jail.

WREG talked to worried employees who have no idea if they will get to keep their jobs.

The food service contract could impact 31 jobs inside the correctional facility. Friday, some of those employees came to meet with Shelby County Commissioners to talk about how pay and benefits could be impacted.

Lawrence Black has worked in food service at the Shelby County Corrections Center for almost 30 years. “I put three of my sons through school,” he said. Now, he does not know if he will keep that job.

The prison currently provides its own food service, but the county is looking to save money. Bringing Aramark Food Service into the prison would cut costs by $1.7 million.

It also means all 31 employees will have to re-interview for their own jobs.