The initiative, supported by Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger and local community partners, seeks to offer comprehensive solutions for recovery, including peer-based support and pathways to housing and employment.
The overarching goal is to foster hope, second chances, and strengthen community bonds through accessible recovery programs.
“Today, we’re celebrating hope, second chances, and a community’s commitment to help one another,” said Kathryn Barger.
“Recovery is not a single event. It’s a daily, courageous choice—a choice people can make far more successfully when they have access to programs like PAX Recovery House. This site will restore relationships and reintroduce people to communities that need their talents and contributions.”
PAX Recovery House offers both residential and outpatient services, including clinical therapy, peer support, relapse prevention planning, and connections to housing and employment services.
The program is designed to provide individuals with the tools and structure necessary to achieve lasting recovery.
The implementation of the program highlights partnership with Los Angeles County agencies and community organizations to deliver holistic solutions.
Kathryn Barger draws attention to the importance of collaboration, saying, “No single agency or program can solve these challenges alone. That’s why partnerships with community-based organizations like PAX House, combined with County mental health and substance use services, are so essential. Every ribbon we cut chips away at the stigma that too often surrounds recovery and unveils human dignity that deserves to be honored and supported.”
James Burnett, CEO of PAX Recovery House, shared his personal journey at the event, using his experience to exemplify the transformative power of recovery: “My life has changed for the better. I strive to offer hope to others because, at one point, if the dictionary had a picture next to the word screw-up, it would have been mine. But after five years of sobriety, I told them to take it downbecause that chapter is already closed.”
David Young, a program alumnus, spoke about the program’s impact: “I had never been through recovery or treatment, so the experience was challenging. My time at PAX House helped me get my life together. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity and want to thank you for helping me get back on track.”
PAX Recovery House is a significant investment to expand community-based solutions that address the overlapping challenges of mental health, substance use, and housing instability.
Referrals to PAX Recovery House can be made through the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s Substance Abuse Prevention and Control helpline at 1-844-804-7500 or through the Department of Mental Health’s 24/7 Access Line at 1-800-854-7771.
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