There are times in life when we need someone to help us up after we have fallen, and many homeless or previously incarcerated people often feel stuck in a frustrating cycle that, for some, leads back behind bars.
Thankfully, the newly established L.A. County Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department is here to help, and its director, retired Superior Court Judge Songhai Armstead, is dedicated to helping people get back on track.
She helped launch the JCOD in 2022, spearheading every program, and tells Heroes Host Heather Jordan she is excited about two new features coming to the department.
"We started a fire camp for formerly incarcerated, transitioning foster youth, and returning veterans so that they can gain jobs in the fire service, forestry, and other public safety type jobs," said Armstead.
But she is most proud of the department's call center.
Armstead said she has heard from many individuals who have served their time that one of the hardest things about readjusting to life on the outside is making connections that help them avoid returning to their old ways.
Those looking for a new way "Can call seven days a week, and you get a live body who will help connect a person to transportation, housing care, management, and a number of other resources an individual that wants to change the direction of their life," said Armstead.
The judge says JCOD's goal is to eliminate every possible barrier because "I think everyone has a purpose. It's just how much we can help them activate that purpose because I think if everyone activates their purpose, then the world would be a better place."
Judge Songhai Armstead is our KNX Hero of the Week!
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