Casa Pacifica Cottage Renovation Offers Healing for Vulnerable Youth

Casa Pacifica cottage renovation offers healing for vulnerable youth by creating safe, supportive spaces.

Robert Van Gundy, Maintenance Manager for Casa Pacifica, pauses as he walks through the renovation site. Amid the dust and debris, a small group of painted bricks stands out. He points to a hand-painted message in the center:

“There’s beauty within.”

The fading brick was created by a youth who once called these three historic cottages home. Over the years, the cottages have served many purposes for the community. Since 2012, they housed Casa Pacifica’s Stepping Stones program for transitional aged youth. Now, they are being transformed to serve Casa Pacifica’s most vulnerable residents—youth in our Short-Term Residential Treatment Program (STRTP).

Designed for youth with complex mental health needs, the STRTP offers individualized treatment over 9 to 12 months in a highly structured, 24-hour therapeutic environment. Overseen by a team of experienced mental health professionals, the program uses a trauma-informed approach to help children build positive mental health habits and to get to the root of emotional, relational and behavioral issues.

“Our STRTP focuses on setting and achieving attainable goals so our youth can once again thrive at home and in their community,” says Kimberly Bennett, Ph.D., Casa Pacifica Chief Clinical Officer.

A fresh start begins with a safe space. Casa Pacifica’s newly renovated cottages will offer youth in the Short-Term Residential Treatment Program a nurturing home designed for healing.

The newly renovated cottages will provide a safe, home-like setting for residents. Nestled among native plants and fruit trees, the cottages offer a peaceful retreat that feels both welcoming and restorative. The updated layout includes 10 beds—three in one cottage, seven in another—along with additional office space for staff. Upgrades such as reconfigured layouts, new flooring, fresh paint, improved electrical systems, and upgraded air conditioning ensure that every detail contributes to a sense of comfort, security, and well-being.

To help our youth settle comfortably into their new home, Casa Pacifica has created Amazon and Target registries for supporters to contribute essential items like cozy bedding, fresh linen and everyday essentials. These thoughtful touches will make a world of difference in helping our new residents settle in.

More Than a Project—A Commitment to Community

Lee McElvaney, superintendent from Staples Construction, which is leading the renovation, takes deep pride in his team’s work. “This is more than a construction project to me. It’s about creating a place where kids can heal and feel safe,” he says.

Thanks to the generosity of Casa Pacifica Angels, new furniture will help make the cottages feel like home. However, there are still many essential items needed—curtains, linens, towels, kitchenware, cleaning supplies, hygiene products, and more. These everyday necessities are crucial in ensuring that each child has everything they need to feel safe and supported.

The transformation of these cottages is only possible because of our generous supporters. As these children step into their new home, they will be met with warmth, security, and the promise of a brighter future. And just like the message left on the stone so many years ago reminds us—there is always beauty within.

If you’re interested in supporting Casa Pacifica’s life-changing mission, donate now!