Need a Low Cost Sober Living House? Oxford House is Always There!
A lot of people find that drinking and drugging puts them into a bit of a jam. They know that they can’t possibly get or stay sober if they stay immersed in their neighborhoods of temptation and abuse – but they don't have the means to get out and make a fresh start.
A lot of people think that without a lot of money – they won’t be able to get back on their feet again. Think that without money for a security deposit, a secure job, good credit or collateral, no landlord in her right mind is going to rent them the place they need to make a fresh start. And they're probably right! And it doesn’t matter anyway, because the thought of making that fresh start without a real strong base of sober support makes for a pretty shaky and stressful foundation to a new life.
Thankfully, there is Oxford House!
Oxford House provides the support you need – they don't generally need you to have much, or any, money for entry, and they won't tolerate any slipping or relapsing. If you are serious about making a new start, and need some financial and fraternal support, Oxford Houses are a pretty good place to start.
- Free Drug and Alcohol Treatment at the Salvation Army
For people who need free or very low cost drug rehab, and need more structure than can be provided by Oxford House - the Salvation Army should always be considered.
What is Oxford House?
Oxford House is the name of an international non profit and charitable organization of sober living homes for drug addicts and alcoholics in recovery. The organization has been around since 1975, there are more than 1200 homes in operation in America, and there are many in most urban centers.
Each Oxford House runs autonomously but with support and organization from central headquarters. Oxford House always rents and never buys any real estate to stay well in the clear from financial matters, and the inevitable infighting that comes with profit on real estate.
Because each house runs as a separate entity, to become admitted into any one house, you must meet with the residents of that house, and 80% or more of the residents of that house must agree to admit you. Once you are admitted, you will be expected to contribute your fait share towards rent and utility expenses. Because most family homes will accommodate 6 or more members – the expenses to any one member are generally very manageable.
There are certain rules, and every house will run with its own internal set of regulations – but the one cardinal rule of Oxford House is that no one may ever drink or use drugs while a resident – and if anyone does, they are asked to leave immediately.
Duration of stay
There is no set time limit to a stay in an Oxford House, and resident may stay for as long as they wish. Most people will stay for about a year, and leave when they are ready and comfortable enough with their sobriety to try things on their own.
There are houses for men, for women, and for women with children. There are no houses for adult men and women together.
If there is no Oxford House in your area – any group of recovering alcoholics or addicts can apply to rent a house and start a new chapter. In most states, grant money is available to help with any start up costs.
How Can You Find an Oxford House in Your Area?
You can visit their house finder tool and find local options.
- Application form for Oxford House membership
Here is the downloadable pdf form to apply for membership into any Oxfird House.
