As long as there have been wars, there have undoubtedly been those whose ability to cope is overtaxed by their experiences. Many turn to drugs and alcohol to relieve their pain, only to find that they have traded one set of demons for another. Transition House offers hope to these veterans, using counselors and staff that are veterans themselves and can understand first-hand the types of issues these men and women face.

Requirements

Transition House accepts verifiably homeless veterans that have completed primary treatment or can prove that they have been clean and sober for at least 30 days into our Men’s and Women's Programs. Veterans in primary treatment at the VAMC, Decatur may enter the Transition House Per Diem Program. Veterans are housed in supportive homes and apartments conveniently located near VAMC Decatur.

The Program

Transition House and VAMC Decatur work together to foster the recovery of men and women in the veteran’s program. While in primary treatment at VAMC, Transition House provides housing, supplemental food, case management services and transportation. During treatment, participants are at the VAMC for a majority of the day and return to Transition House in the evening

Case workers from both the VAMC and Transition House work with each veteran on their recovery plan. They set goals and monitor each client’s progress. During this initial treatment period, veterans are closely monitored for adherence to the rules, with random, but regular bed checks and drug screenings performed. Upon successful completion of primary treatment, veterans must become employed and begin to contribute to their savings plan. For those lacking skills, the case workers will ensure that job training and remedial services are secured.

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.

The Transition House and VAMC caseworkers coordinate their efforts to ensure that veterans are working their recovery plan and are sticking to their commitments. Job performance is monitored, as is attendance at required 12-step meetings (minimum of 3 times per week), weekly house meetings and monthly life skills training meetings.

Veterans may remain in this program for up to two years. After that time, they may choose to graduate to Transition House’s Men’s or Women’s Program to promote their continuing recovery for up to two years.