First modular units arrive for Balay Ko Family Resource Center
By Atascadero News · Mon Mar 23 2026
ATASCADERO — El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) celebrated a major milestone on March 18 with the arrival of the first modular buildings for the new Balay Ko Family Resource Center. Seventeen modular units from Bevyhouse were set into place, forming the structure of the 7,200-square-foot facility designed by Arris Architect.
The center, located adjacent to ECHO’s existing campus, will provide 30 additional beds for families experiencing homelessness and include private rooms, living spaces, a children’s activity room, counseling offices, and a workforce development classroom.
“SCI is honored to be part of the ECHO and Balay Ko Foundation team serving families with children in our community,” said Rudy Bachmann, President of Specialty Construction. “We have seen firsthand the life-changing impact ECHO has on families, and we know this new resource center will significantly expand that impact.”
With more than 300 individuals and families on ECHO's waitlist for shelter, the nonprofit says the expansion comes at a critical time.
In addition to providing safe housing, the center will offer services including case management, a bathtub for families with children, job training, and programs for children.
“We are incredibly excited and deeply grateful to see this dedicated family wing taking shape,” said Wendy Lewis, CEO of ECHO. “This project reflects our commitment to meeting the growing need for family shelter in our community while creating lasting pathways to stability. Thanks to the Balay Ko Foundation and the tremendous support of our community, we are taking bold, tangible steps to change lives. This is more than construction—it’s a promise that families facing crisis will find safety, stability, and a path forward.”
The project is part of ECHO’s Building Hope & Home Campaign, which has raised over 63% of its $6 million goal. Community members are invited to support the project by donating at echoshelter.org