Veterans Village of San Diego (Photo: Prosemaster)
According to several news sources, California has temporarily suspended Veterans Village of San Diego’s, VVSD, license to operate its substance use disorder treatment program for civilians, displacing more than 70 individuals with just a few days’ notice.
This suspension follows a troubling pattern of safety violations and the deaths of seven clients since 2022. Despite efforts to address these issues through a settlement with state health officials in March 2023, two additional deaths occurred in September 2023 and March 2024, revealing continued non-compliance. The California Department of Health Care Services, DHCS, took action, issuing a temporary suspension and moving to revoke the program’s license.
The civilian substance use treatment program, funded largely by Medi-Cal, has been affected by the shutdown. Although the state and county agencies have worked to transition most clients into alternative care or shelter, many expressed anxiety and uncertainty about their future, fearing potential relapses. Some clients voiced their frustration over the lack of support and guidance during this sudden transition. One participant described to reporters the process as feeling abandoned, while another worried about the emotional toll this upheaval might have on his recovery.
VVSD’s Veteran-specific services, however, remain fully operational. The nonprofit stated that its core programs for Veterans, including transitional housing and other support services, are unaffected by the suspension. The organization expressed deep concern over the state’s swift decision, arguing that it comes at a time when homelessness, fentanyl addiction, and economic instability are on the rise. VVSD stated that it had consistently worked to meet state safety requirements and was taken aback by the severity of the state’s response.
The history of issues at VVSD dates back to 2022, when five deaths occurred within a nine-month span, triggering an investigation that revealed multiple health and safety violations. In response, VVSD agreed to a settlement in 2023 to improve safety measures. VVSD provided context for some of these incidents, clarifying that certain deaths occurred off-campus or under conditions beyond their direct control. Despite these explanations, the state holds VVSD accountable for client safety while individuals are enrolled in its programs.
While VVSD continues to serve Veterans and their families, the loss of its license for substance use disorder treatment raises questions about the future of its rehabilitation efforts. VVSD has been a cornerstone in the Veteran support community since its founding in 1981, helping Veterans with housing, addiction recovery, and mental health services. However, the recent challenges cast a shadow on its legacy, as both current and former employees raise concerns about management practices and the overall safety of the facility.
The DHCS stated that it remains committed to client safety, and that the suspension will remain in place until VVSD can demonstrate full compliance with health and safety regulations. The decision to revoke the facility’s license was not made lightly, but according to DHCS, it was necessary to protect the well-being of those enrolled in the program. For now, the organization’s ability to continue providing essential services to Veterans may hinge on how it responds to the ongoing investigations and safety concerns.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
