BUNNELL, Fla. – The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office introduced a program that allows inmates to care for foster kittens at its detention facility.
The program is in collaboration with the Flagler Humane Society and the Successful Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Treatment Program (SMART).
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It allows participating inmates to care for homeless kittens in need, providing a unique therapeutic experience aimed at long-term recovery for both the kitten and the inmates.
The sheriff’s office said the program is part of efforts to support mental health and promote a deeper sense of accountability and emotional connection among inmates.
“Addiction often creates isolation and self-centered patterns,” Sheriff Rick Staley said. “Fostering kittens requires empathy, structure, and consistency--qualities that support recovery and rehabilitation. It’s another tool we’re using to break the cycle of addiction and help inmates build healthier, productive lives while also supporting the Flagler Humane Society while giving a kitten a home until they find a ‘furever’ home after being released from the Green Roof Inn.”
The idea for the program was suggested during a talk with medical staff. The concept led to the partnership with the Flagler Humane Society, which is now providing kittens that need attentive care for the program.
Participants in the program take part in daily kitten routines, including feeding, socializing and bottle-feeding. These tasks give a sense of purpose and responsibility for inmates but a daily routine and emotional support, which officials said are key components in effective addiction treatment.
The program is expected to be expanded to other inmates in the coming weeks. The male inmates are going to help the Humane Society with building projects for the animals in need of adoption at the Palm Coast location.