Spectrum Health Systems, Inc., a longtime not-for-profit organization providing behavioral healthcare and a comprehensive continuum of addiction treatment services throughout Massachusetts, was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Reliant Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of individuals of all ages in Central and MetroWest Massachusetts.
Spectrum will be using the grant funds to administer a unique Transitional Housing Program where clients on public assistance are provided financial assistance equivalent to one month’s rent or a security deposit in order to reside in a sober home certified by the MA Alliance for Sober Housing (MASH). MASH-certified sober homes must adhere to rigorous standards, ensuring they provide safe and stable housing with properly trained staff, are guided by core moral principles and are financially transparent.
“Assisting our clients in obtaining a stable home is very important to us,” said Kurt Isaacson, president and CEO of Spectrum Health Systems, noting that Spectrum works with several local, MASH-certified sober homes on a regular basis. “Our residential clients remain in treatment for 60 to 90 days, during which time they are unable to make and save money or apply for employment. Those without a strong support system close-by may have no other choice but to return to a risky living environment, which often leads to a relapse.”
Clients who demonstrate a need for assistance in securing a safe and healthy environment following treatment and who meet certain behavioral standards are eligible to apply for this program during their time in residential treatment. The Transitional Housing Program greatly improves the likelihood of successful long-term recovery for its recipients, as a structured, drug and alcohol-free residence allows clients the time and stability needed to obtain and sustain employment.
“The Trustees of Reliant Foundation and I are keenly aware that the road to recovery is long and the risk of relapse is great,” said Kelsa Zereski, president of the Reliant Foundation. “We are proud to offer a grant to Spectrum Health Systems to provide transitional housing for individuals who have completed their recovery program and are now working towards independence.”
For more information about Spectrum’s continuum of care, visit the website at www.SpectrumHealthSystems.org/Services.
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About Spectrum Health Systems:
Based in Worcester, Mass. and founded in 1969, Spectrum Health Systems, Inc. is a private, non-profit substance abuse and mental health treatment provider. Spectrum offers the largest and most complete continuum of addiction treatment in New England — including inpatient detoxification, residential rehabilitation, outpatient services, medication-assisted treatment and peer recovery support. Spectrum also offers inpatient detoxification and residential treatment for commercially insured and private pay clients through its subsidiary, The New England Recovery Center.
