The Bridge to an Independent Christian life
In late 2024, the Salvation Army Orange County opened the first home in the new Life Transformation Program. This Bridge program gives women graduates of the Anaheim Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) additional skills to transition into a fully independent life, while living in the home with other women working toward independence.
Under the guidance and direction of Major Jenni Perine, this twelve-step program currently operates a four-bed home. They are required to continually participate in mentorship under the Salvation Army Tustin Ranch Corps Church and where they set goals within the six-month timespan towards an independent life with their case manager.
There are definite boundaries and other requirements during their stay including:
- Live primarily independently including doing grocery shopping, preparing their own meals and taking care of their home
- Learn additional life skills, such as budgeting and navigating transportation issues
- Look for a job if unemployed or working each day
- Perform at least 16 hours of volunteer service at the Salvation Army Ranch Corps
- Continue her Christian journey
If needed, women can access Family Services for food and transportation needs. Participants pay a program fee, part of which is set aside to assist with move-in costs when they find their own place to live.
Updates: Success and Expansion
Major Jenni reports that one woman is set to graduate from the program in the next month. She will be reunited with her husband and moving into an apartment. She’s been employed for four months and is doing well. She will be quickly replaced with another woman who is excited to step onto the Bridge. There will soon be a wait list to enter the program.
Also, another four-bed home will be available soon. We hope the program will continue to expand as women successfully complete their journey at the ARC.