Incarcerated youth in a Stockton correctional facility learn computer skills to combat recidivism.
“A bunch of computers were…donated to an East Sacramento middle school…it turns out those machines were fixed up by kids…from behind bars,” KXTV reported.
The California Prison Industry Authority program at N.A. Chaderjian Youth Correction Facility has operated 14 years without state funding or financial donations.
N.A. Chaderjian was previously known as one of the most notorious youth prisons in the nation, with a recidivism rate rivaling adults at 70 percent, according to KXTV.
Of the computer refurbishing program graduates, only 10 percent were arrested again after their release, KXTV reported.
“(This program) has helped me in a lot of ways…being responsible (and) having integrity,” said Ruben Gulindo, 19, serving time for second-degree robbery.
Participants in the program are paid minimum wage. The money is divided into five categories, including restitution, funds for commissary, savings and room and board.
Sutter Middle School received 40 computers refurbished by inmates in the program.
“And we’re looking to expand this program to schools across California,” said Robert Osborn, senior analyst at the public utilities commission.
