National AIDS Foundation -- Josue Homes

The Foundation's residential rehabilitation programs -- Josue Homes -- alleviate the isolation of HIV-positive women and men through supportive communal environments, while developing independent living skills, employment options and disease-management plans. A member of Father Joe's Villages.

Why do we exist?

When AIDS struck the hearts of families and neighbors in the 1980s, people were abandoned and shunned. Father Joe’s National AIDS Foundation stepped in and established housing for our neighbors in need. Through Josue Homes, the National AIDS Foundation has been in the forefront of providing services to men and women who are HIV positive, providing them the respite they need to reorganize their lives.

Once, we prepared people living with HIV to die. Now, with the advent of new medicines and new understanding, we prepare them for life.

What have you accomplished?

"I came to a place where people were not trying to judge me, but to help me rebuild my life," one resident says of Josue Homes. "I’m very appreciative of this opportunity to have a caring home."

"Josue Homes works," another says. "You feel safe, and there are always people around who understand what you’re going through. It’s been a real blessing."

Father Joe’s Villages® is the parent of the National AIDS Foundation, which provides housing for those with HIV or AIDS who seek help to get back on their feet.  Three San Diego homes host 26 residents at a time. For those who prefer to have their own apartments, we also provide affordable and permanent housing. Up to 30 handicapped-accessible apartments are available at Village Place and Villa Harvey Mandel, located near the St. Vincent de Paul Village campus.

Residents typically stay for up to two years while they work on a transition plan. Transition plan goals might include conquering an addiction, returning to a healthy weight or obtaining government assistance.

The Josue Homes are spacious, clean and nicely decorated. Residents participate in typical "family" chores such as grocery shopping, cooking, laundry and cleaning — activities which provide a crucial bonding experience for people accustomed to living in isolation. Josue Homes residents enjoy access to transportation, mail service, recreation, and a referral network to outside care providers. The staff helps those with little or no income locate financial assistance or medical benefits so they can move toward independent living. Residents may also take advantage of the many rehabilitative services offered through Father Joe’s Villages. These include counseling, medical and dental care, and in-house 12-step programs that address addiction problems.

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