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BY DAWN MARKS –
“It’s a go!” was the theme in Anaheim, Calif., at a recent groundbreaking event, beginning the construction of a long-awaited Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) residence for women. It will be built on the property adjacent to the existing men’s ARC facilities at 1300 S. Lewis St.
Construction plans call for a brand-new 16,000 sq. ft. facility with 14 bedrooms to accommodate 28 women, as well as two studio apartments for on-site managers. The residence will also in-clude an atrium, kitchen, laundry, dining, living, counseling, and meditation rooms and administration offices. There will be access to an adjacent swimming pool and recreation area. Targeted completion date is February 2001.
The new women’s ARC program component will provide free rehabilitation services to women who struggle with substance dependencies and other social handicaps. Minimum stay will be six months.
Identical to the program currently provided for the men, it will include weekly one-to-one counseling, substance abuse education, family support, spiritual guidance, work therapy, 12-step support, and a disciplined approach to the problem of addictive behaviors.
Julie David, a Salvation Army Orange County board member and community activist, served as emcee for the groundbreaking ceremony and helped recognize the many area residents, city officials and community groups who financially supported and championed for a women’s program in Orange County.
Ongoing financial support for the new program and facility will be generated entirely by the sales revenue from 23 Salvation Army Thrift Stores and Boutiques in Orange County, and through the resale of locally donated vehicles.
