FAQ’s:
What is a sober living home? A sober living home in its most basic definition is simply a place where individuals live in a supportive environment free of substances of addiction. These substances include legal and illegal drugs, and alcohol. We can even work to provide access to nicotine cessation services. Our sober living homes strive to be more than a place to sleep at night. Our goal is to provide the basic structure of a recovery environment but also make available other social supports to help in recovery.
Why is a sober living environment important? Evidence shows that individuals who do not change their environment in sobriety are far more likely to experience relapse. ACRN sober living homes are designed to be that needed change in environment. Sharing a home with individuals navigating their own recovery forms a supportive atmosphere built on a common goal.
What is provided? You will be provided with a bed and accompanying linens. Each room has a dresser and nightstand for your personal belongings. Every resident will have access to their own locker and small lock box for storage of valuables. On some occasions ACRN may receive donations of personal care items such as toiletries or other household goods. If these items are not available from previous donations, each resident would be responsible for their own toiletries and personal hygiene items. A house fund will be overseen by the house manager for common items such as cleaners and paper products. Houses are stocked with necessary utensils, dishware, pots, pans and appliances needed for daily activities within the home. Each home will have a television and telephone in common spaces for the use of each resident.
Can I have guests? Guests are allowed in common spaces with approval from the house manager. No overnight guests are allowed.
Can I bring my support animal? No. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate support at this time. If you need to find care for your animal while living in one of our homes, we can work to connect you to fostering services for the duration of your stay.
What is not allowed in the house? Controlled substances of any kind are not allowed in the house. This includes some medication assisted treatment (MAT) such as methadone and Suboxone. Our intent is to allow these medications once we are able to service a higher level of care.
What are my responsibilities in a sober living home? Daily responsibilities will be much like those in any other living situation. Each resident will be responsible for household chores that maintain the common spaces in the home. You are expected to keep your personal space clean and tidy. This includes making your bed each morning. You will be expected to participate in daily recovery-focused activities such as individual or group counseling, support groups or other medically recognized program indented to support your recovery. You will be expected to either be actively employed or participating in a recognized educational program that is directed towards future employment. You are expected to submit to random drug screening as defined by ACRN policies and procedures.
What happens if I have a return to use? If you return to use, you must vacate the home immediately. Allowing residents to remain after returning to use jeopardizes the sobriety of the other residents and will not be permitted. ACRN will work diligently with you to determine the next appropriate steps to help you re-secure your sobriety.
How long can I stay? Most individuals stay for several months, but you are allowed to stay as long as you need, given you abide by the house rules.
Do I have to go through a treatment program first? You do not have to go through a formal treatment program in order to live in one of our sober living homes, although it is preferred. The only requirements are that you follow the house rules and remain sober while participating in our program.
Can I visit before deciding if this is right for me? Absolutely! We would love to show you all that ACRN has to offer in your journey in sobriety.
What if I have a criminal record? ACRN sober living homes will evaluate each prospective resident’s criminal record on a case-by-case basis. We do not allow individuals with sex offense or arson conviction to stay in our ACRN homes.
What standards do you follow? The ACRN sober living homes have been designed in accordance with the National Alliance of Recovery Residences (NARR) guidelines. We strive to meet and exceed these guidelines to provide the best possible recovery experience for each of our residents.
