Nearly 135 years ago, a powerful idea to create change for those less fortunate in San Diego was manifested by a dedicated group of philanthropic women who came together to give their skills, time and money. Their hunger for change was due to many women being abandoned, widowed or living in poverty as result of San Diego’s increase in population and lack of government services.
In 1887, The Women’s Home Association was founded by investing $1,000 in a home in downtown’s Gaslamp District. Efforts quickly grew to caring for homeless, abused and orphaned children, and The Women’s Home became what we now know as the San Diego Center for Children.
As San Diego’s oldest children’s nonprofit, the San Diego Center for Children has evolved to become a nationally accredited organization supporting children and families struggling with mental, emotional and behavioral health challenges.
Today our programs range from outpatient to in-home mental health services and residential treatment. We offer mental health services in schools, pediatric practices, and in our own Non-public school, the San Diego Center for Children Academy.
After 135 years, the Center has grown to 8 program locations across the county empowering the lives of over 1000 youth and family members every day!