SAVANNAH, Georgia (WTOC) – Inmates in Chatham County were given a second chance during their prison sentences.

The county jail’s drug rehabilitation program honored fifty men and ten women who dedicated their time to a better future after their release from prison.

WTOC found out what makes this difference and how to pave the way to success.

“It’s a support program, a program of hope,” said Eric China, director of HDH Addiction Services.

On Wednesday, the Chatham County Detention Center filled with hope as inmates officially completed the drug rehabilitation program there.

The six-week program helps inmates with problems such as addiction, anger management and mental health.

All so that they can be successful after their release from prison and hopefully never have to return.

“We are here to help them get their lives back on track and give them hope so they can become better citizens, better husbands, fathers, sons, grandparents and grandfathers,” China said.

The most important thing this program offers is hope for a future after a criminal record.

“If we have no hope, we have nothing,” China said.

The program works in conjunction with Alcoholics and Drug Addicts Anonymous. Inmates can attend weekly group meetings and receive additional resources to keep them accountable on their path to sobriety.

“A colleague of mine used to use this quote and he said, ‘You know, what’s the difference between roadblocks and stepping stones? And it’s how you use them that matters. You know, that’s what we teach,'” China said.

The path to a bright future does not end with the completion of the program. It is only the beginning.

“Some may be in a pastoral program, others may be in the GED program,” China said.

Some may even be able to participate in a long-term treatment program after their discharge if needed.

The program’s director said it’s about making sure these inmates’ voices are heard and that they represent more than just a jumpsuit.

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