ECS Substance Use Disorder
Residential Treatment Program
Expanding access to trauma-informed residential care in San Diego County
The ECS Substance Use Disorder Residential Treatment Program is a 49-bed, trauma-informed residential treatment program under development in El Cajon. The program will help address the severe shortage of high-acuity residential treatment beds in San Diego County and support adults experiencing chronic homelessness and substance use disorder on a path toward recovery, stability, and renewed possibility.
A Needed Resource for Our Region
Designed to help break the cycle of addiction and homelessness, the program will offer 49 dedicated beds within a whole-person care model grounded in trauma-informed care and harm reduction. The project includes the acquisition and full refurbishment of a
25-bedroom property in El Cajon to create a therapeutic residential environment for adults in need of intensive support. This initiative is a critical response to the region’s intersecting crises of homelessness and addiction.
Front exterior rendering of the facility after renovations. March 2026.
The current exterior of the facility located in El Cajon. March 2026.
Opening This Program Requires Support
Philanthropic support is essential to complete this project and ensure the facility meets all state licensing, safety, and operational standards. With community investment, ECS can expand access to life-changing residential treatment for adults who need a safe and supportive place to heal.
Projected Impact
The program will serve 49 adult men at a time and hundreds annually. By helping clients complete treatment and connect to stable housing, this initiative will create stronger pathways to long-term recovery, independence, and community re-engagement.
Reverse Trauma and Improve Health: Achieve sustained sobriety, improve overall physical health, including a goal of 90% obtaining a physical exam, and stabilize mental health to help prevent future health crises.
Increase Self-Sufficiency: At least 70% of clients will transition into employment, structured employment preparation, or formal education upon discharge.
Achieve Housing Stability: With a strong focus on housing linkage, at least 30% of clients who enter the program homeless will secure housing, creating a foundation for long-term recovery and community re-engagement.
““This program will fill critical gaps in care for men facing addiction and homelessness, offering the stability needed to begin healing. With the partnership of donors, the County of San Diego, and other community allies, we will open the doors for people seeking a path to recovery. I am honored to be part of this effort to offer much‑needed treatment to our region.” ”
By providing a safe and secure place to recover, this program will help adults complete residential treatment and move toward healthier, more stable, and more independent lives.
Your investment will help complete the conversion of this facility and create 49 trauma-informed residential treatment beds for adults in need of a safe and supportive place to heal. To learn how you can invest in this effort, contact Adrienne Wilkerson, Vice President of Strategic Engagement via email or 619.346.8517.