Drug addiction and homelessness go hand in hand. As inexpensive drugs have become more readily available, the rate of addiction and homelessness has soared. In response to this trend, Transition House opened its doors in the 1980’s, providing shelter and counseling for men. Since then, Transition House has served as safe, supportive shelter for hundreds of men. But the need is greater than our capacity to serve—at most any given time, we have men on our waiting list that we are unable to accommodate.

Requirements

Men entering Transition House must be verifiably homeless by HUD guidelines and be clean and sober for at least 30 days. Most have completed primary drug treatment. Some come to us from prison or through court referral.  Those meeting these requirements attend one of the weekly meetings at a house having a vacancy. They tell the residents their story and are interviewed. The residents then decide whether or not to allow the person to join them in their mutual recovery and support. Residents must have a job and independent means of supporting themselves. While some are allowed to enter the program without employment, with the assistance of Transition House counselors, jobs are soon found.

The Program

The focus of Transition House is to foster independence and autonomy among our residents. Our two-year residential program promotes continuing recovery and self-sufficiency. The program uses a phases approach and at the successful completion of each phase, clients assume more responsibility and contribute more resources to the program. Clients are responsible for at least part of their living expenses. Currently men entering Transition House pay program fees of $75 per week.  They may also purchase reduced-fare MARTA cards.  Program Services include supportive counseling, supplemental food, conventional housing, utilities and phone service. This safe, supportive environment will prepare them for the future as productive citizens free from substance abuse and homelessness.

In addition, Transition House residents must participate in a weekly savings program. Residents must put aside $50 each week to prepare themselves for future independent living. At Transition House we believe that learning vital life skills like the importance of regular savings are essential to the future success of our residents.

Each house is self-governing, with the residents responsible to each other for their continuing recovery. Counselors conduct weekly meetings to deal with any issues that arise, but in the end the residents learn to solve their own problems. And they are responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of their home. Residents receive physical and mental health assessments and supportive counseling. They attend three or more twelve-step meetings every week. Each has a case management plan including life-skills and employment training.

It’s a program that works. Transition House has graduated several residents with savings in excess of $5,000. Several graduates have purchased their own home upon leaving! Most importantly, these men return to their families and neighborhoods as productive, healthy people with talents to contribute