SAN DIEGO — “For far too long, our seniors have been left behind,” said Deacon Jim Vargas, president and CEO of Father Joe’s Villages.
The organization recently announced a $50-million donation from philanthropist Dr. Irwin Jacobs — the largest in its history — to assist the growing population of seniors falling into homelessness.
Jacobs’ five-year investment “will create a new senior care program that will bring together targeted outreach, case management, shelter, assisted living, employment services and prevention efforts designed around the unique needs of an aging population,” Deacon Vargas told The Southern Cross.
“It will transform our site at 1501 Imperial Avenue into the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Family Campus at Father Joe’s Villages, including 500 units of affordable housing across three multistory buildings.”
Deacon Vargas said that Jacobs’ gift represents “a belief in the potential of the women, men, children, seniors and veterans we are blessed to serve” and “a recognition that, in lifting up the most vulnerable, we become a healthier, more compassionate and stronger community.”
“Dr. Jacobs’ investment,” he said, “delivers the message to the community that our neighbors in need are worthy of the resources that will help them to self-sufficiency.”
Groundbreaking is to begin in early 2028, and construction is to be completed by 2032.
For more information, visit my.neighbor.org.
