Discover the latest updates in homeless shelter offerings in San Diego. The San Diego Rescue Mission is making significant changes to its shelter locations, impacting the availability of beds for women and children. Learn more about this shift and its implications below.
There will be 60 fewer shelter beds for women and children in the city of San Diego come late September. The San Diego Rescue Mission, a long-standing presence in Bankers Hill, is relocating 50 beds to its new South County Lighthouse facility in National City this fall. This move will result in a pause in welcoming newcomers to its shelter program in preparation for the transition. However, the nonprofit’s comprehensive 12-month program for single adults and families will continue at its Bankers Hill location.
While the move will expand shelter options in South Bay, the reduction in shelter beds in the city of San Diego comes at a challenging time. The city anticipates a decrease of 732 city-funded shelter beds by early next year due to the closure of several shelters. Officials are actively seeking alternative options to address this gap.
It is worth noting that the Rescue Mission does not contract with the city, allowing them to proceed with their plans independently. The nonprofit has expressed its support for a long-term shelter facility that integrates with existing shelters within the city.
The move was necessitated by financial constraints following a recent capital campaign that did not meet expectations. The Rescue Mission remains dedicated to enhancing shelter services across the region and hopes to increase offerings in the future.
Despite these challenges, the Rescue Mission has expanded its reach by opening new shelters in Oceanside and National City, with plans for further growth in East County. The rise in family homelessness has put additional strain on existing shelters, with limited availability and high demand for family and women’s accommodations.
The city has taken steps to address the shortage by adding new shelter rooms for homeless families and women, yet these facilities are already at full capacity. The ongoing efforts to combat homelessness highlight the critical need for sustainable and accessible shelter solutions in San Diego.
