ESCONDIDO — A local nonprofit that provides support services for survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation is seeking donations to build a transitional housing unit for participants in its residential program.
For over a decade, the Alabaster Jar Project has been helping survivors through its North County-based initiatives. Originally a ministry of The Church of Rancho Bernardo, the Alabaster Jar Project became an independent nonprofit organization in 2013.
Currently headquartered in Escondido, the organization offers services through three primary avenues: a resource center that provides care for survivors in crisis and ongoing support, including basic needs such as clothing, hygiene products, food, and transportation; a peer support group led by survivors offering trauma-informed guidance; and Grace House, a two-year residential program that provides housing and wraparound services.
Since its inception, the Alabaster Jar Project has supported over 500 survivors through its housing and resource center, serving an average of about 30 individuals per month. Co-founder and director Susan Johnson said the nonprofit has successfully housed 53 individuals through Grace House, which opened its doors in 2015.
“We have an 89% success rate for individuals who move on to the next healthy step,” Johnson said.
Grace House is located in a confidential location in Escondido’s Old Escondido neighborhood. The organization is now looking to expand by adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to serve as transitional housing, providing a crucial next step for survivors as they work toward securing permanent housing.
Johnson explained that the ADU would offer program participants the opportunity to transition into more independent living at a manageable pace.
“They could pay part of the rent as a step toward self-sufficiency instead of having to completely fend for themselves,” Johnson said. “It gives them some ground underneath their feet.”
While program graduates have made strides in healing, regaining their sense of self, and finding employment, Johnson noted that financial barriers remain.
“This could empower them further as a place where they can rent and have a positive experience before they jump back out into the world,” she said.
The nonprofit is currently in consultation with a builder for the ADU and is navigating the approval process with the city. Though final plans depend on the city’s decision, Johnson envisions a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment to start.
The project’s estimated cost is around $250,000, and the organization aims to raise about half of that amount. In addition to financial donations, the Alabaster Jar Project is seeking skilled tradespeople willing to donate their time and businesses that may contribute their expertise, offering tax write-offs for their support.
The transitional housing project’s primary fundraiser is the Alabaster Jar Project’s 11th Annual Gala, which will be held on September 28 at The Heights, 16066 Bernardo Heights Parkway in Rancho Bernardo. Tickets for the event are $150 per person.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit this link.
