Illustration — no photo of this home on file yet

House of Grace for Senior Care

Small home·Licensed for 6·Chula Vista, California

Licensed since 2021Licence #374604432
  • Care approvals on fileWheelchair · Dementia · HospiceState licensing record · September 27, 2026
  • Estimated starting rate$5,200 a monthCovelight estimate · likely $4,250–$6,400
  • Home sizeLicensed for 6Small care home · a licensed care home (RCFE)
  • Ways to payAsk the homeMedi-Cal ALW participation not on file
  • Last state visitOctober 17, 2025CDSS inspection record

House of Grace for Senior Care is a small care home in Chula Vista — a licensed residential care facility for the elderly (RCFE), the licence category behind “assisted living” and “board and care.” It is licensed for 6 residents since 2021. Bedridden care is not on file.

Built from CDSS public records · September 27, 2026. Every fact below names its source and date.

Quick answers and the state record

A citation does not make a home unsafe, and an empty file does not make a home good.

Quick answers about House of Grace for Senior Care

Is House of Grace for Senior Care licensed?

The state lists this license as “Licensed,” per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.

How many residents is House of Grace for Senior Care licensed for?

6 residents — a small home, per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.

Has House of Grace for Senior Care been cited?

0 Type A and 0 Type B citations since 2021, per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026. Those records count 6 state visits over the same years.

Is House of Grace for Senior Care still open?

This license was on the CDSS roster as of September 28, 2026.

What does House of Grace for Senior Care cost?

$5,200 a month to start is a Covelight estimate, likely $4,250–$6,400. This home’s own rate is not on file. Ask: “What is the all-in monthly rate, and what would push it higher?”

Covelight’s estimate starts from the rates 11 small homes within 5 miles publish, then adjusts for this home’s size, state care approvals, Medi-Cal waiver participation, years licensed and the area’s prices. In testing, the likely range held the real rate for 6 in 10 homes. This home’s own rate is not on file.

Among 6 other homes of a similar licensed size in Chula Vista that publish a starting rate, the middle half runs $4,000 to $6,000 a month, and the middle figure is $5,500 (n = 6 other homes publishing a starting rate).

Each of those is a home’s own published figure, gathered on its own date in September 2026 — not an average of ours, and not a survey. Similar size means small and mid-size homes counted together, and large communities counted on their own, because they are different markets.

A home outside the band is not overcharging or underpricing: a starting rate covers different things in different homes, which is the first thing to ask about.

The price is made in the phone call. Nothing here is a quote, an offer or a discount.

A starting rate is the room and the base care. California homes commonly bill care levels, medication management, supplies, transport and a second person in the room as extras. Many also charge a one-time fee at move-in. Ask for that list in writing before anything is signed.

Only prices a home put out itself count here: its own website, a listing it supplied, or a price a listing site says the home confirmed. Prices a site shows without saying where they came from are left out.

Does House of Grace for Senior Care take Medi-Cal?

On Medi-Cal’s Assisted Living Waiver: this home is not on the DHCS participation list dated September 23, 2026. Ask the program about current options. The waiver pays for care services, not room and board.

Who holds the license?

The license is held by Penola, Helenita B., per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.

Is there a hospital nearby?

Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center is 2.8 miles away in a straight line, per the CDPH licensed-hospital list dated September 16, 2026. See licensed care homes near it.

Can House of Grace for Senior Care keep a resident on hospice?

Hospice care is approved on this license, covering up to 2 residents, per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.

House of Grace for Senior Care license and inspection record

  • Name on the license: “HOUSE OF GRACE FOR SENIOR CARE”, per the CDSS roster as of May 25, 2025.
  • License #374604432. The state lists this license as “Licensed,” per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.
  • Licensed for 6 residents — a small home, per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.
  • Licensed to Penola, Helenita B., per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.
  • First licensed in 2021, per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.
  • 6 state inspection visits since 2021, per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.
  • 0 Type A and 0 Type B citations on file since 2021, per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026. The same records count 6 state visits in that period.
  • 0 complaints and 0 substantiated allegations on file since 2021, per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.
  • The most recent state visit on file is October 17, 2025, per CDSS records as of September 27, 2026.
Type A citationa violation that poses an immediate risk to health, safety or personal rights if it is not correctedType B citationa violation that could become a risk if not corrected, or one involving records, resources or required services

California writes these definitions for every licensed home, not for this one. CDSS citation definitions (PDF) ↗

See the state’s own record

Can they support the care needed?

California licenses a home for specific kinds of care. The state’s record lists what this home is approved for; the home’s own answers fill in what changes as needs change.

  • Wheelchair / non-ambulatoryApproved · covers up to 6 residents
  • Dementia / memory careApproved by the state
  • Hospice careApproved · covers up to 2 residents
  • BedriddenNot on file · ask the home

State licensing record · September 27, 2026. An approval may cover specific rooms or residents; it does not establish an opening.

Read the state’s own wording
AGE RANGE 60 AND OVER. 6 NON-AMBULATORY. HOSPICE WAIVER FOR 2.

935 - ELDERLY · 983 - RCFE / DEMENTIA

CDSS record, verbatim · September 27, 2026

As needs change

  • Staying through hospice

    Hospice waiver on file · covers up to 2 — care may continue at the end of life

    Ask: “If hospice is needed, can care continue here until the end?”

    State licensing record · September 27, 2026

  • If memory loss develops

    Dementia-care designation on file

    Ask: “Can we read the dementia care disclosure and discuss how daily support works?”

    State licensing record · September 27, 2026

3 more questions to ask the home
  • Two-person transfers or a lift

    Not on file

    Ask: “If two people or a lift are needed to transfer, can the person stay?”

  • Someone awake overnight

    Not on file

    Ask: “Who is awake overnight, and how do residents ask for help?”

  • Medicines

    Not on file

    Ask: “Who manages the medicines, and what happens when a dose is missed?”

What it costs here

Covelight estimate

$5,200a month to start

Likely $4,250–$6,400

From 11 nearby homes that publish rates · this home’s rate is not on file

Likely monthly total

$5,200a month

Likely $4,250–$6,550

With a shared room and basic help.

An estimate for planning, not a quote. The price is made in the phone call.

See the full cost breakdownRoom, care and fees · how people pay · how this estimate works
Room
Daily care
Sharing the room
  • Starting monthly rate$5,200likely $4,250–$6,400

    Covelight’s estimate starts from the rates 11 small homes within 5 miles publish, then adjusts for this home’s size, state care approvals, Medi-Cal waiver participation, years licensed and the area’s prices. In testing, the likely range held the real rate for 6 in 10 homes. This home’s own rate is not on file.

  • Basic help with daily careUsually includedup to $600

    Basic help is usually part of the starting rate. Homes that price care by level start around $600 a month (45 California homes publish a care-level range, seen in September 2026).

  • One-time move-in fee$2,000one time · likely $0–$4,000

    Homes that list a one-time entry or community fee charge a median of $2,000 (134 California listings; middle half $1,000–$4,000). Many homes list none — ask.

Likely monthly totalLikely $4,250–$6,550
$5,200
First monthWith a one-time move-in fee · likely $4,950–$9,650
$7,200
How people payPrivate pay, Medi-Cal waiver, SSI/SSP, veterans, insurance
  • Private payMost residents pay from savings, a home sale or family help. Ask for the rate and what it includes in writing.
  • Medi-Cal Assisted Living WaiverThis home is not on the DHCS participation list dated September 23, 2026. Ask the program about current options. The waiver pays for care services, not room and board.
  • SSI/SSPCalifornia’s 2026 standard is $1,626.07 a month; $1,444.07 of it goes to the home and $182 stays with the resident. Whether this home accepts it is not on file — ask.
  • VeteransVA Aid & Attendance can add to a veteran’s or surviving spouse’s pension. Ask whether residents here have used it.
  • Long-term care insuranceMost policies pay for licensed care homes. Ask what paperwork the home provides for claims.
  • MedicareDoes not pay for room and board in a care home. It can still cover hospice or home-health visits inside one.
If the money runs out, what Medi-Cal covers
Avoid surprises on the billWhat changes the price, and what to ask
  • The care level

    Some homes charge one all-inclusive rate. Others add levels or points as needs grow. Ask how the level is set, who decides, and what the next level costs.

  • What is billed separately

    Medication management, incontinence supplies, transportation and a second person in the room are often extra. Ask for the list in writing.

  • Move-in costs

    A one-time community fee or deposit is common. Ask what it covers and whether any of it comes back if the stay is short.

  • Increases

    California requires at least 90 days’ written notice, with reasons, before a rate rises (Health & Safety Code §1569.655). A change in the resident’s care level is the section’s own exception and can be billed sooner.

  • What is the full monthly cost for the room and care we need, and what does it include?
  • What would the next care level cost, and who decides when it changes?
  • What is billed separately, and is there a one-time fee or deposit at move-in?
  • Is any private-pay period required before another payment program can begin?
How this estimate worksWithin 25% for 7 in 10 homes in testing

Covelight’s estimate starts from the rates 11 small homes within 5 miles publish, then adjusts for this home’s size, state care approvals, Medi-Cal waiver participation, years licensed and the area’s prices. In testing, the likely range held the real rate for 6 in 10 homes. This home’s own rate is not on file.

11 homes like this within 5 miles publish starting rates mostly between $4,200–$6,700.

  • Only prices a home put out itself count: its own website, a listing it supplied, or a price Seniorly says the home confirmed. Prices a listing site shows without saying where they came from are left out.
  • Nearby homes are the nearest of the same size that publish a rate, widening from 3 to 40 miles until at least 8 do. The estimate starts from what they charge, then adjusts for this home’s size, state care approvals, Medi-Cal waiver participation, years licensed and the area’s prices.
  • Room, care-level, second-person and move-in lines come from what California homes publish on listing sites. Memory care uses Covelight’s researched premium over assisted living.
  • Totals add each line’s figure and combine the lines’ ranges as separate charges, because a home is rarely at the top, or the bottom, of every line at once.
  • We tested this estimate on 1,546 California homes that publish their own starting rate. It was within 10% of the real rate for 3 in 10 homes and within 25% for 7 in 10; the likely range held the real rate for 6 in 10 (September 12, 2026).
  • It cannot see this home’s specials, how it assesses care, or which rooms are open.
Show the 11 nearby homes behind this estimate

Where it is

  • 971 Rutgers Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91913Address from the public record · September 27, 2026. Confirm the entrance with the home before visiting.

Opening the neighborhood map…

The state record

California inspects every licensed home and publishes what it found. Here are the dated documents and the state’s own words, beside what is typical for homes this size.

Since 2021, the state has filed 6 documents for this home, and its records count 6 visits since 2021. The most recent is a facility evaluation report, dated October 17, 2025.

On file since
2021
State visits
6
Most recent visit
October 17, 2025

Beside homes the same size

  • Type A citations0typical 0
  • Type B citations0typical 0
  • Substantiated allegations0typical 0
  • Total complaints0typical 0

“Typical” is the statewide median across the 6,808 licensed small board-and-care homes (6 or fewer beds) in the state record — larger, longer-licensed homes accumulate more visits and reports, so compare like with like. One complaint can contain several allegations. Counts cover this licence since 2021.

Year by year
YearVisitsDocumentsSubstantiated20251102024110202311020221102021220

The last 36 months — 3 of 6 documents

20251 state visit · 1 document
Oct 17, 2025Facility evaluation reportReport on file

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Arian Golbakhsh conducted an unannounced, required Annual Inspection. The facility file and personnel report was reviewed prior to the visit. LPA was welcomed by, identified themselves to, and discussed the purpose of the visit to Caregivers Urdaneta Balila and Geraldine Penola. Administrator Helenita Penola arrived later during the visit. The facility's license shows a maximum capacity of six (6) non-ambulatory residents. Additionally, the facility has a hospice waiver for two (2). During today’s inspection there were six (6) residents in care. LPA and Administrator Penola toured the interior and exterior of the facility and inspected each room. The facility was clean, sanitary, and in good repair. Pathways were free of obstruction and slip hazards. Client bedrooms contained the required furnishings. Doors, windows, screens, toilets, and showers were in working order. Hot water temperature at taps accessible to clients were all compliant: Common bathroom sink 1 was 108F and common bathroom sink 2 was 109F. Extra linens and hygiene supplies were present, as well as Personal Protective Equipment. The facility had sufficient space and equipment to facilitate dining, laundry, visitation, meetings, and client activities. The facility contained at least two (2) days of perishable food, and at least seven (7) days non-perishable food, all safely stored. Cooking, dining equipment, and utensils were present. Knives were locked and inaccessible to residents in care. [Continued on LIC 809-C] [Continued from LIC 809] No toxic chemicals or poisons were accessible to clients. Medications were labeled, as required, and stored in locked areas. No pools or bodies of water exist on the premises. Per Administrator Penola, no firearms or ammunition are kept at the facility. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, emergency lighting, and facility telephone were all in working order. Fire extinguishers were present and purchased within the last 12 months. First aid kit was complete and readily accessible. Last staff emergency drill conducted was on 9/5/25 for the topic of fires and mass casualty disasters. Required licensing postings were observed in visible areas of the facility. LPA observed residents to be attended to timely and treated with respect. LPA observed a meal be prepared and served to residents as well as assistance with feeding as needed. LPA interviewed one (1) staff and two (2) outside source visitors and interviews did not reveal any licensing or regulatory concerns. LPA reviewed facility records. The files reviewed by LPA contained required documents. Confidential records were stored in locked areas. LPA noted that one (1) staff member (identified as S1) was included on the staff roster but did not have a background clearance on file. Another staff member (Identified as S2) had an Excluded determination on their background check, and thus may not be present or work at any licensed facility. Two Type A Deficiencies cited per California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6 on the attached LIC 809-D. In addition, a Civil Penalty for each of the two Type A violations are being assessed for Zero Tolerance Violations regarding Criminal Record Clearances and are noted on the two (2) attached LIC 421BG forms in the combined amount of $1,000.00. LPA ensured S2 was removed from the property and informed the licensee that S1 may not be present at the facility until S1 receives an eligible background clearance from the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). In regards to S2, LPA issued a Decision and Order letter to the Licensee and provided consultation for next possible steps. Two (2) deficiencies were cited during the inspection. An exit interview was conducted with Administrator Penola to whom a copy of this report and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC 9058) were provided. Their signature below confirms receipt of these documents.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Oct 17, 2025
20241 state visit · 1 document
Sep 17, 2024Facility evaluation reportReport on file

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Alyssa Ramirez conducted an unannounced Required Annual Inspection. The facility file was reviewed prior to the visit. LPA was welcomed by, identified themselves to, and discussed the purpose of the visit with Caregiver Julie Penola. Administrator Helenita Penola later arrived to meet with LPA. According to the facility’s license, the facility is licensed for six (6) non-ambulatory residents. Facilities current census is four (4). LPA, accompanied by staff, toured the interior and exterior of the facility, and inspected resident bedrooms. Facility was clean, sanitary, and in good repair. Resident bedrooms contained the required furnishings. Extra linens and hygiene supplies were present. Hot water temperature was in compliance. There was at least 2 days of perishable food, and at least 7 days non-perishable food present, all safely stored. There were no sharp objects, toxic chemicals/poisons, or open-faced heaters accessible to residents. Medications were labeled, as required, and stored in locked areas. No pools or bodies of water on premises. Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, emergency lighting, and facility telephone were all working. Fire extinguisher and first aid kit present. Required licensing postings were observed in visible areas of the facility. LPA interviewed staff/residents and reviewed multiple staff/resident files. The files which LPA reviewed contained all required documents. No deficiencies were cited during today's annual inspection. An exit interview was conducted with Penola to whom a copy of this report and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC9058 03/22) were provided during the visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Sep 17, 2024
20231 state visit · 1 document
Oct 31, 2023Facility evaluation reportReport on file

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Ramon Serrano conducted an unannounced Required Annual Inspection. The facility file was reviewed prior to the visit. LPA identified himself and discussed the purpose of the visit with Administrator Helenita Penola. According to the facility’s license, the facility has a maximum capacity of six (6) residents, of whom six (6) can be non-ambulatory. Zero (0) may be bedridden and a hospice waiver approved for two (2) residents. During today’s inspection there were six (6) residents present. LPA, accompanied by Administrator toured the interior and exterior of the facility, and inspected each room. The facility was clean, sanitary, and in good repair. Pathways were free of obstruction and slip hazards. Resident bedrooms contained the required furnishings. Doors, windows, toilets, and showers were in working order. Extra linens and hygiene supplies were present, as well as Personal Protective Equipment. The facility had sufficient space and equipment to facilitate dining, laundry, visitation, meetings, and resident activities. There was at least 2 days of perishable food, and at least 7 days non-perishable food present, all safely stored. Cooking/dining equipment and utensils were present. Medications were labeled, as required, and stored in locked areas. No pools or bodies of water on the premises. Per Administrator, no firearms or ammunition are kept at the facility. Carbon monoxide detectors, emergency lighting, and facility telephone were all working. Fire extinguisher(s) were present. First aid kit(s) were complete and readily accessible. Required licensing postings were observed in visible areas of the facility. [CONTINUED ON LIC 809-C] LPA interviewed staff, resident and reviewed multiple staff and resident records/files. LPA interviews did not raise any licensing concerns. The files which LPA reviewed contained required documents. Confidential records were stored in locked areas. No deficiencies were observed or cited during today's annual inspection. An exit interview was conducted with Helenita Penola to whom a copy of this report and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC9058 03/22) were provided during the visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Oct 31, 2023
What the state’s words mean
Substantiatedthe state found the allegation more likely true than notUnsubstantiatedthere was not enough evidence to prove a violation occurred — not a finding of wrongdoingUnfoundedthe evidence showed the allegation was false, could not have happened, or had no reasonable basisType A citationa violation that poses an immediate risk to health, safety or personal rights if it is not correctedType B citationa violation that could become a risk if not corrected, or one involving records, resources or required services

CDSS citation definitions (PDF) ↗ · CDSS complaint outcomes ↗

An “unsubstantiated” complaint is not a finding of wrongdoing — it means the state investigated and could not confirm the allegation. Outcome words are the state’s own; we never grade, score, or color a record, and we publish no reviews — the state’s dated documents and the questions below stand in their place.

Life here

Rooms, meals, the rhythm of a day, faith and language, pets and house rules — as the home describes them. Tap any detail for its source and date; nothing here is graded.

The home has not described daily life anywhere we have reviewed yet — that is the case for most small homes, and it says nothing about the home. These questions fill in the picture; keep the ones that matter to you.

Before you call

Ask every home the same questions — the state’s record does not answer these. Keep the ones that matter and they travel with your saved homes.

  1. What is included in the monthly rate, and what costs extra?
  2. Who is awake overnight, and how do residents ask for help?
  3. Which rooms does the non-ambulatory approval cover, and what transfer support is provided?
  4. What could change whether someone can stay here?
  5. Can we see a bedroom and share a meal during a visit?

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