I Choose Recovery! Transitional Housing

I Choose Recovery (ICR) is a new non-​profit option that offers affordable transitional housing to those in need. By that I mean, those who are referred by social workers and that may be transitioning out of drug rehab, prison, or jail. Covering nearly an entire block in the City Heights neighborhood of San Diego, ICR will eventually accommodate up to 80 residents looking for a safe, structured, and centrally-​located clean living environment. Purposely looking to aid those men and women who desire a fresh start-​it is so much more than that. There exist a host of resources to help change come about in all aspects of life.
A few of the many helpful tools offered include: fully furnished residences, community facilities, medical and dental through La Maestra Community Health Centers, 12-​step meetings, Community Garden projects, Computer Labs with internet access, Music & Art Lab, 15-​seat passenger van, on-​site laundry facilities, food pantry, job opportunities and placement assistance, and volunteer opportunities for community service requirements.
There will be a Pancake Breakfast on May 1, 2010 from 8 – 11:30 a.m.
at the Fire House Museum at 1572 Columbia Street, San Diego, CA. 92 101. The price is $ 6 and half the proceeds go toward the ICL Housing and the half will benefit the «Get on The Bus» Ministry from the Rock Church-​which sends the children of the incarcerated on a bus to visit their parents in jail.
The Rock Church Prison Ministry is actively involved with the ICL Housing program, as they are in the prisons ministering to those behind bars. Many of the prisoners need services when they are paroled or released from jail, and the ICL is a natural extension of providing that which is badly needed by those who are transitioning back into society. The potential residents are pre-​screened, vetted, and referred by Prison Ministry Chaplains and Pastors. They are given health and medical testing before being allowed to move in.
There are strict rules to follow and abide by. The Prison Ministry has taken a few Church personnel over to check the place out, and I can say it is wonderful that such a valuable resource is available to transitioning persons.
This program is badly needed in the community and I am glad to see that there are actual opportunities for those serious about clean-​living to get it right and become valued participating members of their communities.