Santa Cruz County Probation Service Center Opens

From the Santa Cruz County Government: On Thursday, the Santa Cruz County Probation Department and a dozen community based organizations helped usher in a unique and groundbreaking effort to reduce recidivism and enhance public safety.

For individuals returning to the community from jail or prison, the Santa Cruz County
Probation Service Center provides a space for County and local community-based
organizations to integrate services and decrease barriers to successful community
reintegration. The model provides a "one-stop" center for clients to access needed
services so that they are not forced to visit multiple locations, which can be a barrier to
meeting post-release goals, particularly for those with limited means.

“The Probation Service Center is the logical evolution of our continuous improvement in
services,” Santa Cruz County Chief Probation Officer Fernando Giraldo said. "We believe
this investment will have long-term benefits for equity, justice, and public safety."

“We’ll be able to help with everything from basic hygiene and clothes through
computer literacy and internet job searches,” said Felipe Hernandez of Sobriety Works,
which works to provide sober living environments, outpatient counseling and relapse
prevention services. "We are pleased to participate in this innovative service model."

The Center includes community services under one roof to make it easier for individuals
to access support, while also increasing communication and coordination among
providers. Available services include Diploma and Computer Literacy Classes, Job
Development and Placement, Mental Health Counseling and System Navigation,
Reentry Planning and On-Going Support, Literacy and Education, Peer Mentoring,
Substance Use Disorder Assessment and Referral, Cognitive-Behavioral Classes and
Groups, Benefits Eligibility and Enrollment and more.

The 3,200-square-foot Probation Service Center is funded through the Santa Cruz
County Community Corrections Partnership and AB109, which is providing support for
development, build-out and initial operating costs