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Overview of Residency
We begin this application with an overview of what we offer. We understand that not everyone has seen our website, so we’d like you to be well-informed before you apply. You are welcome to keep these first two pages
Mission House for Women Sober Living exists for women struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, who are committed to 12-Step work as a way out. If you are serious about your Recovery and believe in working the Steps and practicing the Principles, you are welcome here. We are convinced that honest 12-Step work can and does change a person’s heart, mind and life. We treat each woman with dignity and respect, and encourage every individual to rise to the occasion.
We are a house for women a bit past the beginning stage of Recovery. We do not structure your time, beyond several general requirements. We work best for women who already recognize their need, and are earnest about gaining their own balance.
We give random UAs and breathalyzers, and have a Zero-tolerance policy for relapse. We require 3 outside 12-Step meetings per week in addition to our Tuesday evening dinner/house meeting. If you don’t already have a Sponsor, you must find one and dive into Big Book Step work quickly. You are also required to be an active member of an in-person 12-Step Home Group.
We gather together every Tuesday evening at 5:30 for family dinner and residents do a weekly check in. Afterwards, we have a 12 Step in-house meeting. This evening together is often a welcome time of laughter and catch up. During the week, the house can seem surprisingly low-key because people work different schedules. That provides the quietness and space which individuals need. Nevertheless, there is almost always someone around, willing to lend an ear or a hand. Overall, we have found that this home-based support and connection helps our residents get their roots into Recovery. It then empowers our women to give back and serve in the larger community, and to become who they are meant to be. Our Portland/ Southern Maine area has a vibrant Recovery community where you can thrive.
We respect long-term ongoing healthy relationships. Otherwise, we ask you to not become involved in a new romantic relationship until you’re solidly into Step work, and your Sponsor is in agreement. You may have your car, phone and laptop.
We are able to offer a loose structure because of the first 12-Step Spiritual Principle, which is Honesty.
If these thoughts quicken your spirit, you are welcome to apply.
Each resident will work/ volunteer/ be in school for at least 32 hours/wk. During your first 30 days, you are asked to not work overtime, as you’ll be getting established in the Recovery-focused rhythm here. After the first 30 days, we’d rather you keep the work hours to 45 unless the situation is unusual. This is to give you the time, focus and energy for your Step-work based Recovery. Now is not the time to make work or income a priority. That can come soon enough, once a foundation of Recovery is built. We are not the place to live if work/income is your biggest goal at the moment.
The first 30 days are a trial period, with the hope that you will be a good fit for the house, and we for you. Curfew for those initial 30 days is 9 pm; 10 pm after that. Overnights are granted on a case by case basis after 30 days. We try to leave wiggle room for unique situations, while also providing the support and structure each person needs to succeed. We don’t typically accommodate third shift work, but are willing to speak with you about your situation.
We typically request a 3 month minimum commitment. That is because we are a family, not a hotel. In unique circumstances, we may be willing to accept a resident for a shorter time period than that. As for length of residency, you may stay as long as you are still growing. In our experience, up to a year can be very useful to fit you for your life that lies ahead. Longer is fine also, as needed.
Rent is $775/month and includes all utilities, internet, netflix and coffee, as well as kitchen and bathroom supplies. Bedding is provided, or you are welcome to bring your own. You will typically be in a small double room with two twin beds. Storage is mostly under the beds, so do not bring all your possessions.
The total move in cost is $1,275. This includes the first month’s rent, a one-time Move In fee of $100, and a refundable Security Deposit of $400.