In a transformative move toward healing and recovery, Father Joe’s Villages is proud to announce the opening of its new 44-bed detox program on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. Located inside the Paul Mirabile Center at Father Joe’s Villages downtown campus, this residential program offers essential services for those experiencing homelessness who seek to end their substance use—with dignity, respect, and a comprehensive continuum of care.
Made possible through the incredible generosity of donors who contributed $1.5 million, the detox center is a true testament to the community’s commitment to addressing substance use disorder and homelessness in San Diego.
Meeting a Critical Need
The launch of this program arrives at a critical moment, as San Diego faces an unprecedented demand for detox services—with far too few resources available to meet the growing need. With only 78 detox beds in the County and just two in the City prior to its opening, this program fills a significant gap for those experiencing substance use disorders who may be unhoused or lacking access to treatment. It is designed not only as a space for withdrawal from substances but also as a stepping stone toward long-term recovery.
A Comprehensive Model of Care
What sets this detox program apart is its holistic, evidence-based model, guided by the expertise and longstanding commitment of Father Joe’s Villages in serving people experiencing homelessness and behavioral health diagnoses. Key features include:
- Comprehensive, Thoughtful Design: Everything has been considered to make recovery possible in one place—shelter, meals, healthcare, and even space for beloved pets—because healing is possible when clients feel safe and supported.
- Onsite Federally Qualified Health Center (Village Health Center): Clients have access to integrated primary care, psychiatry, dental, behavioral health, onsite lab, insurance enrollment, and more—all geared toward meeting health needs alongside detox.
- Supportive Environment: Staffed continuously with shelter, security, and trained treatment professionals, the center maintains a dorm-style living setting rooted in Compassion, Respect, Empathy, Empowerment, and Dignity—the Father Joe’s Villages CREED.
Eligibility and Participant Criteria
Father Joe’s Villages Detox Program will accept referrals from hospitals, community organizations, justice‐involved individuals, and self‐referrals. Participants must consent to treatment, be self‐motivated, and abide by safety policies.
From Detox to Long-Term Recovery
Detox usually lasts between 10 to 14 days, depending on the substance, duration of use, and the participant’s overall health. At the end of their detox stay, participants are supported into the next phase of recovery, whether that means outpatient treatment, residential programs, sober shelters, or other support coordinated by Father Joe’s Villages.
How to Get Started
To verify eligibility, individuals or referring entities can complete a confidential online referral form at my.neighbor.org or contact the Detox Program directly. Medi-Cal is accepted, and for those without insurance, Benefits & Enrollment Specialists are on hand to help.
A Vital Step Forward for San Diego
This new Detox Program represents more than just another clinical service—it’s a statement of compassion for people often overlooked, a bridge from crisis to stability, and a tangible investment in the health of our communities. Homelessness, substance use, and mental health challenges intersect in complex ways. Providing detox services with integrated care and wraparound support offers a pathway toward recovery, reduces harm, and can restore dignity, hope, and belonging.
For more information about the program or to donate or get involved, please visit my.neighbor.org or call the program directly at 619-665-1607. As this program opens its doors, San Diego gains a powerful new ally in the fight against substance use disorders and homelessness—one that leads with compassion, evidence, and hope.
