A new and heartwarming partnership between the Yolo County Probation Department and Yolo County Animal Services is giving both vulnerable youth and kittens a second chance through a unique program called “Paws for Change.”

Led by Probation Division Manager Michelle Vermette and Supervising Detention Officer Melissa Elliott, in collaboration with Animal Services Director Stephanie Amato and shelter staff, the program places foster kittens inside the Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF), where youth participants are responsible for their daily care.

From feeding and cleaning to administering medications and socializing, the young people are deeply involved in every aspect of nurturing the animals.

“I am incredibly excited about this opportunity to highlight the importance of kitten fosters and the critical role they play in giving our most vulnerable shelter animals a chance at finding their ‘furever’ homes,” stated Stephanie Amato, Director of Yolo County Animal Services. “The human to animal bond is powerful, not only for the kittens who are receiving essential care and socialization, but also for the youth whose lives are being positively impacted through this experience.

The program officially launched in late May, with youth receiving orientation and training. The first litter of four kittens arrived at JDF on June 7 and will remain until June 25, at which point they will return to Animal Services for adoption with one already spoken for by Chief Probation Officer Rachelle Gayton herself. The JDF will continue to foster new litters as they become available.

The idea was born from Vermette, a shelter volunteer, had envisioned a connection between the detention facility and the animal shelter. Amato had similarly sought opportunities for collaboration. After hearing about the success of similar prison programs at a recent conference, staff decided to tailor the concept to suit the youth setting and with kitten season approaching, the timing was perfect.

“Socializing the kittens is the biggest component of the program,” said Vermette. “But what we’re really seeing is the growth and empathy developing in our youth. They take this responsibility seriously and are showing great care for these animals.”

Beyond pet care, the program is already demonstrating impact. Since its launch, there have been zero disciplinary issues among participating youth, and each participant completed an empathy assessment to help measure personal development, with follow-up assessments planned every six months. Youth have expressed how meaningful the experience has been:

“This has made it feel like a real home-like environment. It’s taught us what it’s like to have responsibility. It’s very calming.”

“They are therapeutic. The kittens are really funny and make my day a little happier. Doing this makes me want to help others and volunteer more.”

“They are teaching us how to be responsible for something.”

“Now I know how my mama felt when we weren’t listening.”

The success of “Paws for Change” would not be possible without the full support of Chief Probation Officer Rachelle Gayton and JDF Superintendent Oscar Ruiz.

“We are thrilled to have our youth participate in the kitten fostering program,” said Rachelle Gayton, Chief Probation Officer. “It’s a meaningful opportunity for them to build empathy, responsibility, and a sense of purpose through caring for vulnerable animals. This kitten program will help nurture positive growth and connection which are key to rehabilitation.”

As the program continues to grow, the community can help support its success. If you are interested in contributing to the wellbeing of foster animals like these kittens, please consider donating to Yolo County Animal Services.

To learn more about current donation needs, contact Animal Services directly at (530) 668-5287 or visit www.YoloShelter.org.