With construction nearly complete, Serenity House, San Mateo County’s new licensed crisis residential respite facility, is scheduled to open early summer. The facility, located at the corner of Hacienda and 37^th and operated by HealthRight360.

Serenity House will offer individuals and family members intervention services to ensure that help is available for those with mental health issues in need of short-term support. It will provide a safe and welcoming environment for up to 10 adults experiencing a crisis, provide assessment, treatment and recovery supports in order to re-stabilize the individual and facilitate their return to their home and community.

Progressive communities recognize the benefits of providing a safe and calming place for people struggling with a mental health issue who need time out of the situation that is causing their condition to deteriorate.

Studies show that such centers are quite effective. For example, more than 80% of clients who go to a respite center do not need to be hospitalized. In addition, clients in respite centers are happy with the services and the care costs much less than hospitalization.

In San Mateo County, there has not been any place of respite for people with mental health issues. Serenity House will fill a critical gap in the County’s system of care for people with mental illness.

HealthRight360 is currently scheduling meetings with community stakeholders to inform them about Serenity House’s planned services and referral process.