SAN DIEGO — Under a first-in-the-nation program, some Californians will be getting cash after they're released from prison. It's all part of a new state reentry program.
Center for Employment Opportunities, or CEO, is helping run the program.
Jacqueline Castillo works for the organization as a program assistant. CEO offers job training and other support to people after incarceration.
"To see them reach those goals is rewarding," she said.
Castillo sees people pursue jobs in warehousing, construction and truck driving through getting their commercial driver’s license. The program is a groundbreaking for many people who come through.
Castillo said she was incarcerated for 18 months as well. She came to CEO after her release and says it was a time in her life when she felt lost.
"Finally I got my shot to come in for orientation. I was excited, I was happy like this will be a game changer and change my life around," she said.
CEO is expanding its reentry resources through a nearly $7 million dollar grant.
"It invests in people and it's a good investment at a critical point where they're ready for change and need the basic services, to get a job and keep that job," said Aaron Walling, the regional director of southern California CEO.
Program participants will receive $2,400 dollar cash payments to pay for bus fare or food during their initial days after being released. They'll also go through the job training and be connected with counseling and help them reenter the workforce.
"One thing that CEO did for me was give me myself back. No one does that work for you. You have to do the work for you. I was committed and determined and here I am now," Castillo said.
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