The City of Stockton, in partnership with Friends Outside and other local agencies, has been awarded an $8 million grant to expand support services for individuals involved in the justice system. The funding will focus on delivering mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and social support programs across San Joaquin County.
The initiative aims to assist approximately 650 individuals over the next three years, specifically targeting those with offenses eligible under Proposition 47. Participants will receive access to job training, housing assistance, counseling, and rehabilitation services designed to support long-term stability and reintegration into society.
Michael Sorenson, Executive Director of Friends Outside, emphasized the broader mission behind the funding. He noted that the goal is to provide individuals identified by the courts with meaningful opportunities to rebuild their lives through employment and stable housing. Sorenson also highlighted the importance of addressing addiction as a medical condition, pointing out that stigma often creates additional barriers to recovery…