Being released from jail can be challenging at any time, but even more so during a pandemic.
Basic resources like phone charging, water and transportation, can be vital for former inmates – and a new pilot program in Santa Barbara county is also offering PPE kits, like masks and hand sanitizer, for those being released from jail.
The goal of the program is to provide basic resources, such as phone charging, water, PPE kits (including masks, hand sanitizer, and more), resource guides, phone calls, and transportation.
In addition, the program will provide linkage to services for an individual open to this assistance, says Suzanne Grimmesey, from Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness - who are behind the program.
The Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness, in partnership with the Good Samaritan Shelter and the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, are piloting the new Jail Discharge Program.
The CREDO47 Stabilization Center, operated by the Good Samaritan Shelter, will have a transportation team member present outside of the jail lobby every Wednesday and Friday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. through this new pilot program.
For more information on the CREDO47 Stabilization, call 805-250-9022. To learn more about Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness, visit http://countyofsb.org/behavioral-wellness.
