Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (left) introduces herself to CERRC staff (right). July 2023.
SAN DIEGO — On July 7, ECS Central East Regional Recovery Center (CERRC) had an exciting day. Congresswoman Sara Jacobs visited the center, toured the facility, learned about the work done at CERRC, and listened to the lived experiences of several CERRC clients.
Jacobs represents California’s 51st Congressional District and has demonstrated her support for the fight against poverty, homelessness, and inadequate education, among other causes, through her involvement in various caucuses and leadership roles. Congresswoman Jacobs expressed her care for the citizens of her district and was excited to meet CERRC clients.
(From left to right) Angel Ibarra, Assoc. Director of Strategic Partnerships and Government Affairs; Adam Gordon, ECS Board Member; Stacie Perez, VP of Programs; Elizabeth Fitzsimons, ECS CEO; Sara Jacobs, California Congresswoman; Rachel Ahakuelo, CERRC Program Manager; and Summer Kahoonei, CERRC Program Coordinator, smile for the camera prior to Jacobs’ tour. July 2023.
Angel Ibarra, ECS’ Associate Director of Strategic Partnerships and Governmental Affairs, explained why connecting with officials like Sara Jacobs is important for ECS. “We are looking at systemic issues, and to really address those, we need full community collaboration from many different people,” he stated.
This is undoubtedly the case at CERRC, as governmental and community focus on substance use disorder (SUD) is a critical issue in San Diego. According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, in 2020, nearly 1000 deaths in the region resulted from overdose. Thousands of individuals are suffering from SUD in our community and need help. CERRC works to prevent such tragedies and helps those struggling with SUD. The CERRC team assists with assessments, individual counseling, group treatment, and discharge planning, among other services and resources, to help clients heal and regain control over their lives.
Jacobs listens intently as CERRC clients share their journeys of recovery. July 2023.
“Our CERRC program serves over 800 people a year, and every month we house over 100 people,” said Stacie Perez, ECS’ Vice President of Programs. She also shared the incredible progress she has witnessed in clients and the dedication of the staff. “Our staff are very genuine. A lot of our staff have lived experience, and part of their own mission is to give back what was given to them, and they do that every day in their work here with the people we serve,” said Perez.
ECS is grateful to Congresswoman Jacobs for visiting CERRC. We look forward to working alongside her in continuing our work to have an abundant and equitable society where all have unlimited potential.