URGENT UPDATE: The Porter County Jail’s critical Chemical Dependency and Addictions (CDA) program will continue despite the imminent loss of state funding. Sheriff Jeff Balon announced that the Porter County Council has approved funding to ensure the survival of this vital initiative, which has been instrumental in rehabilitating inmates since 2002.
New reports confirm that the jail will lose its state grant in 2026, primarily due to budget cutbacks impacting NorthShore Health Centers, which provides essential services for the program. However, with the council’s commitment, the program is set to maintain its operations, securing salaries for two case managers crucial to its success.
The CDA is a comprehensive 12-week treatment program designed for both men and women, offering classes three days a week. Participants gain essential skills to manage stress, cravings, and triggers, aiming to reduce the likelihood of relapse. In 2025, nearly 300 individuals are expected to graduate, a testament to the program’s life-changing impact over its 23-year history.
Sheriff Balon emphasized the program’s significance, stating, “CDA training is vital for the men and women who are incarcerated at the Porter County Jail. Substance use disorders often lead to incarceration, and comprehensive programs like CDA help individuals understand addiction’s science, develop coping skills, and recognize relapse triggers.”
The CDA’s commitment to rehabilitation extends beyond the jail walls. Graduates are equipped with the tools necessary for successful reintegration into their communities, paving the way for healthier lives and reduced recidivism. As Balon noted, “A person who learns coping skills and reenters the community has a higher success rate for a productive life after incarceration. This ultimately improves public safety by reducing repeat offenses and lowering overdose risks upon release.”
The continuation of the CDA program underscores the importance of community support and resources for those struggling with addiction. With the Porter County Council’s swift action, the program’s future is secured, allowing it to remain a cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts in the region.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the Porter County Jail continues to fight for the health and safety of its inmates and community.
