FATHER JOE’S VILLAGES NEWS | Fall 2024
Father Joe’s Villages Expands Impact with New Detox Facility & Recovery Shelter
Last month, in collaboration with Councilmember Campillo, we announced a significant advancement in our ability to prevent and end homelessness. Scheduled to open in early 2025, our new inpatient detox facility and sober recovery center will have 44 beds and a capacity for approximately 350 individuals, respectively. Both represent the pioneering spirit of Father Joe’s Villages, which has made us San Diego’s largest, longest-standing, and most modeled-after homeless service provider in our community. Today, we receive national media coverage and are internationally recognized.
Overdose-related deaths have skyrocketed within San Diego’s homeless population. In just five years, they have increased from 125 to nearly 400. Coupled with the county’s limited detox beds, 77 for a population of 3.2 million, the need for another detox facility is undeniable. In a matter of months, we will increase this number by 57% and fill a regional gap in care with desperately needed specialized services. Staff will provide expert care aligned with our CREED—Compassion, Respect, Empathy, Empowerment, and Dignity. Furthermore, clients will be connected to our comprehensive programs and services to move them closer and more quickly to self-sufficiency and housing.
Join us in observing National Recovery Month by donating to Father Joe’s Villages.
Detox: How It Will Work
Located in the same building as our health center, the detox facility and sober living shelter will seamlessly integrate with other medical and behavioral health programs and services.
Proximity will also support the withdrawal or “detox” process of quitting alcohol and other drug use. Individuals experience a range of physical and psychological reactions that require ongoing assessment to inform personalized treatment plans focused on stabilization and management of withdrawal symptoms. Following that, clinicians will prepare a comprehensive and effective post-detox treatment plan.
Join the movement and be part of this life-changing and life-saving endeavor with a gift to Father Joe’s Villages today!
The Experts Advise: Why Detox?
“The reality is that many of our community members are using substances to cope with the harsh reality of their circumstances, and unfortunately, they are dying as a result of it. So many want to stop but don’t have the support and the environment to do so. We need medical detox beds and a recovery facility that is easily accessible with skilled and compassionate staff to provide a safe and supportive environment for our community members to withdraw from substances and start gaining the coping skills and tools they need to improve their circumstances and give them the best chance at living the healthy and happy life they deserve.”
—Jennifer Wilkens, SUDCC, Manager of Street Health
“Detox and sober shelter can be the difference between life and death for the patients we serve. A safe community and resources are critical in learning to lead and maintain a life of sobriety. The Village Health Center and the adjacent detox facility and sober shelter will provide a safe and supportive environment for community members to find stability and healing.”
—Mary Jo Scarpitti, Clinic Director
