A recovery house is a residence for people to live together who are in recovery from drug and alcohol addictions. These are drug and alcohol free, supportive, structured homes for recovering persons to become accustomed to a healthy lifestyle. The members of each house live together as a family and help each other to stay clean and sober and to grow. The houses who are members of the Bucks County Recovery House Association are usually privately owned single homes in suburban neighborhoods. They are not funded by medical insurance or government subsidized. Each person pays his or her own way. The houses help recovering people achieve and maintain recovery, self sufficiency and a new way of life.
Residents of recovery houses are people who realize that they can't recover alone. Recovery houses provide a high level of support to help a person achieve long term recovery. Usually a person coming to a recovery house must already be drug and alcohol free, because detox and professional treatment services are not provided. Many residents arrive after completing a stay in detox or rehab, however each case is considered on an individual basis. There are people from all walks of life living at recovery houses, ranging from professional people to those who were formerly homeless. All share the common bond of freedom from alcoholism and addiction.
First the individual needs to have a desire to recover. To obtain information about specific houses, check website links on the Men's Houses or Women's Houses or call any of the numbers listed for houses. The contact person will provide you with detailed information. They will also ask you for information about your current situation and history. If you need to find a recovery house right away, be sure to ask about bed availability.
How does it get paid for?The weekly rates for recovery houses in Bucks County vary but range from about $133 per week to $165 per week. Many houses also charge a one-time intake fee for initial processing. This fee varies, but is usually less than $100. The amount of money required to enter a house varies by house. Residents pay for their own rent and food costs. Most recovery houses are "working houses" where everyone either has a job or is required to look for a job. There are some exceptions for individuals who are on disability, unemployment or workers comp. Some houses will make payment arrangements for a person starting out without funds.
Complete abstinence from drugs and alcohol is required. Drug testing is done to insure that residents remain drug and alcohol free. Attendance of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous is required. Residents are usually required to sign in and out of the house and have a curfew. Over-night outings are usually allowed after a certain amount of time in the house. The members of the house share a room with others. There is usually a resident manager.
Blackout is a term that describes a period of time that a resident is required to abide by strict rules, in order to acclimate and become stable in the house. The rules for a blackout period are different for each house.
All prescription medication taken by residents must be cleared in advance by house management.
Most houses allow residents to have cars if proof of valid registration and insurance is provided. Public transportation is usually available in close proximity to the house. Ask the house about public transportation if needed. Many times the residents of the house will help other residents get to meetings or work. In Bucks County a bicycle is also a great way to get to around.
Many houses provide some meals for the residents. Many houses provide four dinners per week, Monday through Thursday. Some houses provide all of the meals, but at others you must provide your own. Check with the individual house about how many meals are provided.
Bring only personal belongings, such as clothes and personal products. Small electrical items are usually allowed, but large TV's, personal refrigerators or other large items are not. It is not advisable to bring valuables or large amounts of personal property, as most houses do not have large storage areas for residents.
Do your best to learn and follow the rules. Get to know the members of your house and make a connection with those who are most focused on recovery. Get a sponsor, make your meetings and work the 12 Steps. Be willing to ask for help and help the next person.