Sen. Scott Wilk presents $2 million check to help Victorville treatment center
State Sen. Scott Wilk (R-Victor Valley) presented a $2 million check to help fund renovations and improvements to the Desert Hill Crisis Residential Treatment Center in Victorville.
The upgrades to the treatment center will ensure that those in need have access to the vital resources and care that will help get them back on their feet, according to county officials.
“As a society we are in the midst of unprecedented homelessness and mental health crises. Life can be particularly harsh for vulnerable people living in the high desert,” Wilk said. “I am pleased my work to secure this critical funding has come to fruition.”
The Desert Hill facility, operated by the county’s department of behavioral health, can house up to 16 residents and has staff on-site all day every day, year-round. The facility serves 100-120 residents during the year, with nearly 76% experiencing or at risk of homelessness, according to county officials.
“To receive support from the state level, shows that the services and facilities we have available to the community, truly make a difference,” Behavioral Health Director Georgina Yoshioka said.
Yoshioka and First District Supervisor Paul Cook were at Tuesday's check presentation at Victorville City Hall.
"The collaborative effort between the county and state underscores our commitment to enhancing services for this vulnerable population, marking a significant stride towards a healthier and more compassionate community," Cook said.
What is Desert Hill Crisis Residential Treatment Center?
Desert Hill Center is a new and nearly 11,000-square-foot building, where residents can stay for up to 30 days.
Treatment is designed for people experiencing a serious psychiatric episode or intense emotional distress who might otherwise face voluntary or involuntary hospitalization and/or incarceration.
The facility provides the following services and accommodations to patients:
Allows residents to practice real-world recovery by participating in the day-to-day activities of running a household, including learning basic living skills, social/interpersonal skills and the coping skills necessary to remain stable.
Provides assessment, physical and psychological evaluation, mental health and case management services, in addition to assistance locating permanent housing.
Links residents with step-down services and resources to support their recovery.
Each bedroom has a living area and restroom, and the center also has a common kitchen, living, and eating area.
There is also a separate medical exam room, therapy room, visiting room, laundry facilities, and staff offices.
For more information on Desert Hill Crisis Residential Treatment Center, visit starsinc.com. For more information about the San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health, visit sbcounty.gov/DBH.
Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227 or RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on Twitter @DP_ReneDeLaCruz
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Sen. Scott Wilk presents $2 million check for Victorville treatment site
