FAQs

Women’s First Step House of North County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women establish a new beginning in sobriety, free from alcohol. We offer a free 10-day stay to women who want to begin a life in recovery and don’t know where to go. We provide a safe, supportive, and welcoming residential environment where women can take their first steps toward a healthier life without alcohol. Our home is supported by compassionate female volunteers, many of whom have experience with recovery.

Our program is for women 18 years old and older who are struggling with alcohol and want to begin their journey toward sobriety. We cannot accommodate children or pets. If you are ready to explore a life free from alcohol, we encourage you to call us. A volunteer can talk with you about your situation and whether our free 10 day stay peer recovery home is a good fit. We do not accept walk-ins. All potential guests must call first for a screening to ensure we are the right place for you. Call 760 542-6724.

Nothing! We offer a completely FREE 10-day stay. There is no charge, and no insurance is required. Our recovery support home is made possible through private donations, grants, and community support.

If you are worried about a woman in your life who is struggling with alcohol, you are welcome to call us to learn more about our program. We can explain how the house works and offer guidance on how to encourage her to reach out. However, in order for a woman to be considered for a stay, she needs to call on her own. We know recovery works best when people seek help for themselves.

No. However, if you are currently drinking and are concerned about withdrawal symptoms, we will suggest you seek medical help first. We are not a medical detox facility – we are a peer recovery support home. Alcohol withdrawal can be medically dangerous, and some people need medical supervision or detox services before entering a residential recovery environment. Please call and one of our volunteers can talk with you further. 760 542-6724

We provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive home environment where you can focus on beginning your recovery, living a life without alcohol. We have 6 beds – each guest has a clean, safe place to sleep. We also offer three home-cooked meals each day; clean clothing if needed; personal hygiene supplies; and support and encouragement from volunteers. You can bring 2-3 casual outfits to wear during your stay. All personal belongings that you bring with you will be stored in a locker and returned to you at the end of your stay. You can focus on yourself and your next steps without worrying about the cost of these basic necessities.

Our house is staffed by caring volunteers from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 365 days a year. We have a live in cook who offers home cooked meals. Many of our volunteers are women in recovery who generously share their experiences, strength, and hope. They provide encouragement and a supportive environment as you begin your journey toward sobriety.

No, the Women’s First Step House is not a medical detox or treatment facility. We are a peer recovery support home. Women who may be experiencing alcohol withdrawal should seek medical guidance before arriving. Call us to discuss your situation and appropriate next steps. 760 542-6724

Our goal is to help women establish a foundation for a life free from alcohol. Continued recovery is an ongoing journey, and having a support system is important. During your stay, you will begin to explore options and resources for continued recovery after leaving the house.

You are not alone. Recovery is a journey, and previous attempts do not mean you cannot succeed. Every person’s path is different. We believe every woman deserves the opportunity to start again, regardless of her past. You are always worthy of hope and a new beginning. Guests can stay one time in a 365 day period; 3 times in a lifetime.

We welcome women in recovery who are interested in giving back and helping other women begin their journey toward sobriety. Volunteers play an essential role in keeping our home operating and providing encouragement to our guests. We offer volunteer orientation the 3rd Sunday of each month. Interested in signing up before then? Please contact Pam S at 760 222 5995

Yes. Volunteers who work directly with our guests must be women in recovery from alcoholism. Orientation is required. Women with less than 90 days in recovery may shadow an experienced volunteer, while those with more than 90 days in recovery can sign up for their own shifts.

We make volunteering manageable for women with busy schedules. Volunteers can participate in just one four-hour shift per quarter, or they can opt to sign up for more. Shifts are available in the morning (8am – 12pm), afternoon (12pm – 4pm), and evening (4pm – 8pm). There are also opportunities to get involved with other organizational activities and teams. Pam S can offer guidance on how to volunteer and other opportunities. 760 222 5995.

We are always looking for passionate people to join our Board of Directors. We welcome men and women, people in recovery (2 years minimum sobriety required) and/or friends of recovery. Please contact President Kyra Caskey to learn more. 858 242 2651. Board of Directors positions are a 2-year commitment

We are always looking for volunteers to help support our presence at events – whether outreach events or events specific to the Women’s First Step House. Please contact Chandra for more information: 760 473 4884.

Financial donations are always appreciated and directly support our mission of providing free stays for women seeking recovery. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, contributions may be tax deductible and receipts are provided. Visit DONATE – Women’s First Step House of North County for more information.

Thank you for such a generous thought. Please contact our Treasurer, Linda Horning, for more information. Linda H: 760 917 5254

We appreciate clothing donations to help our guests feel comforted and supported. However, we don’t have a ton of room so please contact Wendy D to discuss what you would like to offer. Wendy D: 760 594 0736. Please visit WFSHNC Clothing Donations – Women’s First Step House of North County to learn more about our needs.

We typically do not accept furniture and other large items. We are a humble home and don’t have room for additional items. If you have outdoor living furniture, we may be able to accommodate certain items. Please contact 760 542 6724 and a volunteer can take your information to share with the Board of Directors.

Absolutely! We welcome partnerships with businesses, community organizations, and individuals who share our commitment to helping women overcome alcoholism. Support can take many forms, including financial contributions, fundraising events, grants, and other resources that help sustain our mission. If you are interested in partnering with us, please call our main line and a volunteer will collect your information and share it with the Board of Directors. 760 542-6724.