SAN DIEGO – This year has held a lot of “firsts” for ECS’ Community Harm Reduction Team (C-HRT) Safe Haven. The Safe Haven officially opened in January 2023 and has accepted residents with open arms since day one. C-HRT held its first annual Labor Day Celebration this month, which exemplified its welcoming spirit.

An abundance of helping hands brought the event to life. C-HRT’s Activities Committee of resident volunteers planned the details, including the menu, food preparation, and music. Activities Committee members include residents Diana, Raymond, and Zehren.

Diana prepped veggie packs, a perfect option for vegetarian attendees; Ray made asparagus; resident Daniel served fruit salad from his mother’s recipe; and the staff prepared ribs. 

The residents and staff enjoyed a family-style meal with good food and good people. Taliea Burton, Lead Resident Assistant, shared, “This is important as many of our residents lack familial and other social supports, so, at C-HRT, we strive to bring our community together!”

C-HRT Safe Haven serves up to 22 unhoused residents living with chronic substance use conditions and is a partnership between the County of San Diego, the City of San Diego, and Episcopal Community Services. For more information, visit https://www.ecscalifornia.org/c-hrtsafehaven.