A job training program at the East Mesa Detention and Re‐entry Facility is taking root at county parks.

Trees and plants that were cultivated and grown at the jail’s greenhouse will be planted by inmates at five parks all over the county this month.  

The job training program started in July 2014 to help inmates develop skills and work habits needed to secure honest employment after their release, according to a San Diego County Sheriff’s Department news release.

An instructor from Grossmont‐Cuyamaca Community College District teaches inmates basic horticultural and landscaping skills. Inmates graduate with a certificate of participation.

“Gardening can be therapeutic and gives inmates a sense of purpose while serving time behind bars.  The work they do for county parks also helps inmates build healthier connections with the community,” the release stated.

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