Through a shared commitment to support survivors, the City of San Diego and the County of San Diego are making a joint investment to continue operations at Casa Mariposa, a shelter for individuals and families experiencing domestic violence.  

On Tuesday the San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted to appropriate $1.5 million to continue operations at thes domestic violence shelter through the next fiscal year. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria intends to ask the San Diego City Council to match this funding in the City’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget. Together, these investments will ensure that San Diegans have a secure, temporary place to call home during their most vulnerable moments. 

Opened in 2024, Casa Mariposa provides 164 beds and trauma-informed services for individuals and families at risk of or escaping domestic violence. This joint funding agreement between the City and County ensures the facility can maintain operations for another year. 

“No one should have to choose between living with abuse or living on the street,” Mayor Todd Gloria said. “By working alongside the County, we’re keeping the doors open to a safe haven where survivors and their children can find protection, stability, and a path forward.”  

“Providing a safe and reliable escape for victims of domestic violence requires a united municipal front,” said San Diego County Supervisor Paloma Aguirre. “With this joint County and City of San Diego funding, we are standing with survivors and safeguarding those most at risk, so Casa Mariposa can continue offering the stability and protection they need to break the cycle of abuse and begin their recovery.” 

Casa Mariposa has helped over 300 individuals and families since the shelter opened two years ago. Both the San Diego City Attorney and District Attorney offices refer victims of domestic violence to the program in times of crisis, particularly as protective orders are processed.  

“Casa Mariposa represents what is possible when the government comes together with a shared commitment to safety and dignity for survivors of domestic violence,” District Attorney Summer Stephan said. “For nearly two years, this shelter has provided lifesaving refuge to more than 300 individuals and families at their most vulnerable moments. When our office refers a victim in crisis mostly fleeing domestic violence, we know Casa Mariposa will meet them with compassion, security and support. This partnership ensures that accountability for offenders is matched with immediate, tangible protection for survivors. By investing in Casa Mariposa, we are not only funding shelter beds, we are strengthening a coordinated safety net that helps families stabilize, rebuild and move forward free from violence.” 

“Casa Mariposa is a critical part of the services we provide to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault at the San Diego Family Justice Center, Your Safe Place,” said City Attorney Heather Ferbert. “This shelter is a fantastic partnership between the City and County to ensure families fleeing abuse have a safe, stable place to turn in times of crisis. Casa Mariposa is a lifeline for families who need a safe place to stay while focusing on their journey to escape violence and heal. I'm proud of its success and excited to see this vital work continue.” 

The City used a state grant to transform a 164-bed property in a warm, welcoming and family-friendly space for those in need. The exact address is not public to protect the privacy of shelter residents. Security and staff are onsite 24-hours a day.  

Facility needs and programs at Casa Mariposa are directly administered by the City’s Homelessness Strategies and Solutions Department and operated by SBCS (formerly known as South Bay Community Services). Services include intensive case management, individual and support group counseling, court accompaniment, emergency support (food, clothing, transportation), childcare, mobile health clinic, legal support, parenting support and referrals to other supportive programs. Like other City-funded sheltering programs, pets are allowed at Casa Mariposa.  

“Casa Mariposa exists in large part because courageous public leaders chose to stand with survivors, and we are profoundly grateful that the City of San Diego and County of San Diego have once again prioritized this lifeline for women and children,” said Kathryn Lembo, President and CEO of SBCS. “In a time of real fiscal constraints, their decision to continue investing in safety and stability for some of our community’s most vulnerable residents speaks volumes about our region’s values. We are deeply thankful for this enduring partnership and honored to continue providing a secure, healing space where families can rebuild their lives with dignity, support and hope.” 

Program operations have been largely funded through the use of County-secured American Rescue Plan Act funds.   

Referrals to the domestic violence shelter are made by both the San Diego City Attorney and San Diego County District Attorney. City of San Diego residents in need can reach out confidentially to the San Diego Family Justice Center – Your Safe Place at 619-533-6000. The County’s One Safe Place Family Justice Centers can be reached at 888-440-HOPE (4673).