By Erin Smith
The holidays are a time for celebrations and family traditions, but for others it is time of sadness and stress. It can be a difficult time for those who are struggling with their sobriety, as well.
Carolina Transitional Housing in Matthews has both male and female beds available to assist you with maintaining your sobriety. Michael Hollis, who manages the male house, said currently there is one male and one female house with beds available. He said two more houses are undergoing renovations and they hope to have them open soon.
“The houses are very comfortable,” said Hollis. He said linens and furniture are supplied as well as some basic food supplies. Residents are required to prepare their own meals and purchase their own groceries.
He said Carolina Transitional Housing was begun because of a lack of affordable options in the Charlotte area for those attempting to recover from substance abuse. Hollis said his own experience with transitional housing was not good. He said the first place he resided was very restrictive in its rules and the staff wanted him to speak with his employer about leaving work early in order to meet the home’s curfew of 6 p.m.
Hollis said the second transitional home he stayed in was filled with bed bugs and he contracted scabies while residing there. He said when he was sharing his story with friends, they suggested using his and others experiences as a guide to establish Carolina Transitional Housing to offer others in recovery a clean, healthy environment in which to get back on their feet.
Those who are applying for residency will be considered based on their current situation, according to Hollis. He said they do ask that you complete the detox process at minimum before entering Carolina Transitional Housing.
“Ideally, they will have completed some sort of treatment or detox,” said Hollis.
Hollis said they require the first and last weeks rent up front plus a $100 refundable deposit. The rent is $175 per week.
“It is structured housing,” said Hollis. He explained that residents are required to participate in counseling sessions, go to 12-step programs or other programs which will assist them in maintaining their sobriety. Residents are also required to work and Carolina Transitional Housing staff can assist you with this.
Hollis said transportation is provided to weekly support groups and grocery stores, but they do not provide transportation to work. The homes are located near bus stops for transportation to places of employment or shopping, etc.
“We definitely need more resources,” said Hollis of the opioid epidemic.
He said the staff at Carolina Transitional Housing is ready and willing to assist those who are looking to maintain their sobriety. For more information on how you can apply for housing, call 704-631-7166 or email dion@ carolinacenterforrecovery.com.
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