The Crossroads Foundation was founded in San Diego in May 1957, by a group of prominent judges, attorneys and civic leaders who were concerned about the disease of alcoholism.  The founders included Bernice Morris, Judge Dean Sherry, a federal research attorney and other members of the community.  

Prior to forming the Foundation, the founders consulted with public and charitable agencies. They discovered that there was no place in San Diego where a woman alcoholic could go for food, shelter, clothing or help to recover from her disease of alcoholism. They also learned that many women who entered the criminal justice system had an alcohol problem.  These factors inspired them to create the Crossroads Foundation to address this tremendous need in the community.

A Founders' House committee of club and church women as well as recovering alcoholics was formed to solicit donations needed for a residence accommodating a group of women.  They located a home to rent and the Crossroads Foundation facility was opened on December 22, 1957.  Bernice Morris became the first President of the Crossroads Foundation Board of Directors and served in that capacity until her death in 1976.

In 1961, Crossroads needed to expand its facility. The King’s Daughters of San Diego, Inc., generously donated the funds to purchase a residence. They selected a 1890's Victorian home located in the Hillcrest area of San Diego. With tender loving care (and several repairs and upgrades) this home remains the primary residence for Crossroads.

Milestones

Dedicated Crossroads staff, board members and community members have been vital in keeping Crossroads one of the finest recovery homes for women throughout California.

Here are some of the significant milestones in Crossroads’ history. (Some dates are approximations based on available information.)