In San Diego County, a newly approved program will pair offenders with case managers, who will help them find substance use treatment, education and vocational training, the Associated Press reported on June 14.

From the time of their arrest until up to 18 months after their parole, participating inmates will receive guidance from their mentors, starting in July. By October, the program will be able to accommodate up to five parolees each week.

San Diego releases approximately 200 offenders each month, and 60 percent of them return to prison within 3 years.

'The program will help shut down the revolving door in and out of California's prisons,' said Supervisor Greg Cox.

The county will contribute $1.7 million to the program. The rest of the funding comes from the California Department of Corrections, which was recently authorized by state law to fund probation programs in up to three counties.