Friendship House

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  • Interior

    A cozy living room featuring a large aquarium as a focal point.

  • Outdoors

    A vibrant garden scene with lush trees and greenery.

  • Decor

    A cozy living room with a sofa, television, and decorative artwork.

  • Living Room

    A cozy living room with a large sofa, computer desk, and ample natural light from the window.

  • Architecture

    A small residential house with a landscaped front yard.

  • Bedroom

    A cozy bedroom with hardwood flooring and curtains separating the space.

  • Trees

    A neatly landscaped garden area with trees and mulched ground.

  • Windows

    A charming single-story house with a well-maintained front yard and pathway.

  • Dining

    A well-decorated dining room featuring a large table with elegant chairs and a floral centerpiece.

  • Landscaping

    A sunny backyard garden with lush green leaves and a wooden fence.

  • Kitchen

    A cozy kitchen featuring wooden cabinets, a stove, and a sink under a window.

  • Garden

    A suburban house with a well-maintained lawn and garden.

  • Pathway

    A charming suburban single-story house with a well-maintained lawn and brick pathway.

  • Painting

    A cozy living room featuring a sectional sofa, hardwood flooring, and a scenic painting on the wall.

Friendship House

1511 Princeton Drive, San Jose, CA 95118

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.5 from 22 reviews
5 stars
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Assisted Living Board and Care Home Memory Care Respite Care

Overall Review of Friendship House

Pros

  • pro The Friendship House program is vital for Native people and their recovery.
  • pro Nathan and Victoria are people to look up to and have true empathy for Native Peoples from all over the Nation.
  • pro Helen Devore connected with the clients and made their stay comfortable.
  • pro Randy Shirley's methods help clients get into their psyche and persevere through vulnerability.
  • pro Laverne Shirley and the kitchen crew provided support and created new perspectives for the clientele.
  • pro Friendship House is one of San Francisco's true treasures.
  • pro Family members who went through the program came out clean and sober and have been working and improving their lives.
  • pro The Father Alfred Center and Walden House allow clients to maintain dignity and support sobriety.

Cons

  • pro Some staff members were described as shaming and embarrassing clients, and talk in AA meetings was discouraged.
  • pro The recovery approach was portrayed as inadequate and careless.
  • pro The resources available were described as thin.
  • pro It was not a healing environment.
  • pro The program appeared tailored to those facing criminal repercussions rather than to those seeking sobriety.
  • pro The facility felt like a vacation for users and did not provide real help.
  • pro There was a perception of mean politics and gatekeeping that hindered assistance.
  • pro Narcan was prescribed to residents, prompting concerns about overdose management.
  • pro Some staff were described as clueless and unhelpful.

Review

Across a tapestry of experiences, the stories about recovery programs paint a picture that is as diverse as the people who seek help. Some memories begin with pain and embarrassment in earlier years, while others arrive with pride in cultural reconnecting and a renewed sense of dignity. One writer recalls a time in 2005 when staff at certain centers reportedly shamed clients and restricted participation in common recovery spaces like AA meetings. In that memory, two alternative facilities - Father Alfred Center and Walden House - stood out for treating clients with dignity, and the author today celebrates sobriety and a return to family life as a direct result. That contrast - that a few places could still honor a person's humanity even while trying to help - becomes a recurring thread: the difference between environments that feel humane and those that feel punitive.

Another voice from the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska shares a more recent chapter: September 2022, a 12-day stay that began with promise but ended early due to homesickness. The writer acknowledges the initial warmth and care, yet the sense of rootlessness - being away from home and community - made it hard to stay. This experience casts into relief the challenge of sobriety for Indigenous people who navigate not only personal cravings but the weight of cultural belonging, kinship, and land. Even as the stay was short, the sense of place mattered; the author notes the importance of an environment that honors who they are as a Native person.

From that same vantage point, a stark critique emerges: the approach at the Friendship House, at least in the reader's view, can appear inadequate and careless if it seems designed to address criminal repercussions more than the core journey of getting sober. The criticism is pointed - resources, in particular, are described as thin, and the system as a whole is said not to feel like a healing environment. The complaint isn't that people don't care; rather, it's that the structure and priorities sometimes appear misaligned with genuine recovery for those who are sober-minded and seeking transformation beyond legal consequences. The concern hints at a broader question: can a program stay anchored in healing while navigating the pressures of funding, bureaucracy, and public safety mandates?

Yet the story doesn't end there. Another section of the narrative offers a powerful counterpoint: the writer describes a year-long program with Friendship House as vital for Native people and their recovery. The relationships formed within the program are celebrated as its core strength. There is a sense of honesty and vulnerability that is welcomed - "they take the relationships there very personal," the author says, and that personal attention is what makes the program work for them. The gratitude is palpable for specific individuals who left an enduring mark: Helen Devore, whose constant connection with clients made stays more comfortable; Randy Shirley, whose methods invited deeper introspection; Nathan and Victoria, whose empathy is described as sincere and essential for success with Native peoples from across the nation; and Laverne Shirley, along with the kitchen crew, who offered steadfast support and fresh perspectives. This is not just about sobriety; it is about community, kinship, and reclaiming a sense of safety within a space that honors Indigenous identities.

The personal histories include even more layers of meaning. The writer marks a milestone of 25 years with a sense of gratitude - an ongoing journey toward reclaiming the Paiute language and culture, described in celebratory terms with a line of symbols and well-wishes. The language itself becomes part of the healing story: reclaiming numu pa tse ne naga paiute language and culture after feeling lost. That detail elevates recovery from a solitary internal win to a culturally grounded reclamation, underscoring how identity and tradition can be integral to sustained sobriety for Indigenous people. The affection for Friendship House, and the belief that it stands as a beacon for Indigenous recovery, is unmistakable: "I love the Friendship House" and "it is one of SF true Treasures," a sentiment echoed by others who have long known the institution.

But the narratives don't shy away from dissenting notes. One reviewer recalls seeing a family member leave after ninety days, still grappling with the same issues, and disputes the practice of Narcan administration within the program. The concern isn't about preventing overdoses - it's about whether the facility is truly offering lasting solutions or merely a temporary shelter in which crises can be managed. There is also a recurring cautionary thread about the program serving as a respite rather than a pathway to real change: "It seems to me this place is just a vacation for users but they don't get real help." The implication is that some people might cycle through, returning again and again for short stints rather than embarking on the longer, transformative recovery that many seek.

Other voices provide a more supportive counterbalance. A different family member testifies that after involvement with the Friendship House, his relatives have emerged clean and sober, found steady work, and begun building better lives. The emphasis is practical and hopeful: if a person genuinely wants to be clean and sober, the program can help, but if the drive isn't there, progress becomes much harder. This mix of stories - where families see tangible improvements and others fear a lack of deep transformation - illustrates the complexity of recovery work. It also underscores the common truth that success often hinges on the individual's own commitment as well as the program's ability to sustain motivation and provide comprehensive resources.

In another pointed note, a family member recounts an experience trying to get help for an incarcerated son. The encounter is described as frustrating and discouraging, characterized by a staff attitude that seemed clueless and distracted by small acts like chewing gum. The takeaway is not merely about a single bad interaction; it reflects a broader concern about accessibility, responsiveness, and the quality of support when families are seeking pathways to care for their loved ones. The critique adds to the sense that navigating these systems can be as challenging as the personal work of recovery itself.

Together, these intertwined stories reveal a landscape charged with hope, complexity, and unresolved tension. They speak to the virtue of culturally grounded, community-centered care and the real difference that committed staff and accessible resources can make. They also warn of the limits that underfunded programs can face and the risk that bureaucratic pressures - politics, gatekeeping, and uneven access - can overshadow the essential mission: helping people reclaim their lives from addiction. For some readers, Friendship House represents a cherished lifeline and a cultural harbor that honors Indigenous identity; for others, it signals a need for reform, more robust supports, and a clearer path to lasting sobriety. The thread tying these experiences together is the enduring belief that recovery belongs to the person seeking it, but its success depends on environments that honor dignity, culture, relationship, and genuine healing rather than stigma or distance.

Features

Housing

  • 6 resident community capacity 6 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
  • Board and Care Home Board and Care HomeBoard and care homes provide a smaller, more intimate setting for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks but do not need the level of care offered by a nursing home. They offer personalized care, meals, and social activities in a homelike environment, ensuring that seniors receive individualized attention and support in their golden years.
  • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.
  • Respite Care Respite CareRespite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to recharge and attend to their own needs. It also gives seniors the opportunity to socialize, receive professional care, and experience a change of scenery, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.

Amenities

  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • San Jose International (8 miles away) San Jose International (8 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
  • Dementia waiver Dementia waiverDementia waivers are essential for seniors as they provide critical protections and accommodations for those experiencing cognitive decline. These waivers ensure individuals with dementia receive appropriate care, support, and resources to maintain their quality of life and dignity as they navigate the challenges of this progressive condition.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Hospice waiver Hospice waiverHospice waivers are important for seniors because they allow individuals to receive specialized end-of-life care and support at home or in a hospice facility. This waiver ensures that seniors can access the necessary resources and services to maintain comfort and dignity during their final days.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • Mild cognitive impairment Mild cognitive impairment"Mild cognitive impairment" is important for seniors because it is an early stage of cognitive decline that can potentially progress to more severe conditions such as dementia. Recognizing and addressing mild cognitive impairment can help seniors receive appropriate care and support to maintain their quality of life and independence for as long as possible.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
  • Specialized memory care programming Specialized memory care programmingSpecialized memory care programming is crucial for seniors with cognitive impairments such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of individuals with memory loss, helping them maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life.
  • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

Friendship House in San Jose, CA is a warm and inviting assisted living community that offers various types of care including board and care home, memory care, and respite care. Our priority is to provide a comfortable and safe environment for our residents while ensuring they receive the personalized support they need.

Our community boasts several amenities to enhance the quality of life for our residents. We have a spacious dining room where nutritious meals are served daily to accommodate special dietary restrictions. Each living space is fully furnished, ensuring that our residents feel at home from the moment they arrive. Our beautiful garden and outdoor space offer opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment of nature. Additionally, we provide housekeeping services to maintain cleanliness and tidiness throughout the community.

At Friendship House, we understand that coordinating a move can be overwhelming. Therefore, we offer move-in coordination services to assist our residents with a smooth transition into their new homes. We also provide essential amenities such as telephone and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet connectivity so residents can stay connected with friends and family.

Our dedicated team of caregivers is trained to provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We work closely with health care providers to ensure coordinated care for our residents' individual needs. For those requiring specialized memory care programming, we offer tailored services to support mild cognitive impairment and dementia waiver.

Medication management is an essential aspect of our care services, ensuring that each resident receives their medications on time and in the correct dosage. We also prioritize mental wellness through our mental wellness program designed to promote emotional well-being among our residents.

Transportation arrangements are available for medical appointments, allowing residents easy access to healthcare facilities. We are conveniently located near plenty of cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals – providing easy access for social engagements and outings.

At Friendship House in San Jose, CA – we strive to create an inclusive community where each resident feels valued and supported.

Nearby Places of Interest

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.4 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (0.6 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1.1 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1.8 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (0.4 miles)
  • Boba Pub (0.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (1 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (2 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.7 miles)

Parks

  • Lone Hill Park (0.9 miles)
  • Jeffrey Fontana Park (1.2 miles)
  • Almaden Lake Park (1.3 miles)
  • Guadalupe Oak Grove Park (1.3 miles)
  • Belgatos Park (1.5 miles)
  • Rubino Park (2.7 miles)
  • Houge Park (2.7 miles)

Restaurants

  • Chick-Fil-A (1.1 miles)
  • Red Lobster (1.2 miles)
  • BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse (1.8 miles)
  • The Cheesecake Factory (1.9 miles)
  • In-N-Out Burger (2 miles)
  • McDonald's (3.5 miles)
  • Jack In The Box (3.7 miles)

Physicians

  • Palo Alto Medical Foundation (1.3 miles)
  • California Skin Institute (2.8 miles)
  • Comprehensive Pain Management Center (3 miles)
  • Imig, Mary Dr - Mary L Imig, MD - Los Olivos Women's Medical Group (3.1 miles)
  • Ramblc Pediatric Group (3.2 miles)
  • Palo Alto Medical Foundation (3.4 miles)
  • Obstetrix Medical Group (4.1 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Santa Teresa Catholic Church (2.6 miles)
  • Presbyterian Church of Los Gatos (3.6 miles)

Theaters

  • Pruneyard Cinemas (3.7 miles)

Hospitals

  • Valley Medical Center Clinic (5 miles)
  • Valley Health Center Bascom (5.3 miles)
  • Kaiser Permanente Medical Center-Santa Teresa-San Jose, Pharmacies, One North (5.3 miles)
  • O'Connor Hospital (6.3 miles)

Transportation

  • San Jose Diridon Station (6 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Nearby Communities

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