“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

El Paso Villa Maria is a transitional home for women experiencing homelessness. We house 22 women without their families or children to center them on their journey to recovery and self- sufficiency. 

Our facility boasts a safe and serene living environment where residetns can enjoy a private bedroom, bathroom, daily nourishing meals, and valuable counseling and resources free of charge. Residents who enter our program on average stay 3 - 6 months.

Our holistic approach addresses all aspects of our resident's well-being, from physical health to mental resilience, and emotional and spiritual well-being, 

*Important Note: Villa Maria is a transitional shelter, not an emergency shelter. If you are seeking emergency shelter for yourself or others please click here for more resources.

The first step into residency at Villa Maria is to schedule an interview with our Case Manager. 

During the interview process, our Case Manager will ask about the individual's personal story, challenges, and goals. This helps us understand how Villa Maria can best support their unique needs and determine if our program and services are a good fit. 

Eligible candidates will be placed on our waiting list and be warmly welcomed into Villa Maria as soon as a room becomes available.

*Please Note: an interview with our Case Manager does not guarantee future residency at Villa Maria.

All women seeking entry into our program must meet the following requirements:

• Identify as woman (Villa Maria is LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming)
• Be 18 years of age or older
• Demonstrate honesty and openness with staff during the initial intake process and throughout the program
• Actively seeking shelter, having exhausted all other options and resources (first-time candidates are given preference)
• Live independently, separate from children, partners, or family members
• Be physically self-sufficient and able to care for oneself
• Maintain sobriety for at least 3 months, with preference given to individuals leaving drug rehabilitation programs
• Establish clear and achievable goals within a 3-6 month timeframe and actively work towards them
• Actively participate in programs and engage in the services offered by Villa Maria
• Participate in mandatory house activities, chores, and classes.
• Fulfill any applicable probation requirements
• Be respectful and welcoming to all staff, residents, and volunteers
• Comply with the policies and rules of Villa Maria