Amid ongoing efforts to tackle the homelessness and drug issues in San Francisco, the city is pushing forward with a new development in the Marina District, where a building that formerly housed the Marina Inn will now become a two-year recovery housing facility. This initiative comes from The Salvation Army and the Health Commission, and it’s set to provide post-treatment housing for adults who have completed residential substance use disorder treatment. As per the city’s website, the program at 3110 Octavia Street aims to empower its participants towards lasting recovery, emphasizing stability, financial independence, and personal growth.
Conversations around this project have ignited a range of reactions in the community. Hoodline San Francisco first became aware of this project due to posts on Nextdoor which reveal a tapestry of concerns and endorsements. Resident Erin Roach noted that the facility “is only for women who have jobs and are trying to transition out of homelessness” and will be managed by the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army’s history of supporting people in recovery is echoed by Martha Sullivan from Upper Pacific Heights who mentioned, “Salvation Army is sober living, not harm reduction.” Community members like Tj Arza of Upper Pacific Heights profess support for such initiatives, “I’d love more centers available to those looking to rehabilitate and re enter society.”
Hoodline SF reached out to Salvation Army for comment, but has not yet received a response…