The law restricts state referrals to certified homes, reinforcing certification as a best practice for safety and accountability. Operators may access funding through MASH-administered grants when available. The state also participates in the HUD Recovery Housing Program (RHP), which supports local initiatives expanding access to recovery housing. Before applying, operators must complete Sober Housing 101, a required training that covers certification standards and expectations.
Step 4: Approval and Funding Disbursement
MASH serves as https://ecosoberhouse.com/ the primary agency for accountability of all certified homes in Massachusetts. The legal framework governing sober houses in Massachusetts is multifaceted, involving state and local regulations. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 111, Section 127A, empowers the Department of Public Health to establish health and safety standards for residential facilities. This statute ensures sober houses maintain a habitable environment for residents.
Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing
- In severe cases where non-compliance threatens public safety or resident welfare, Massachusetts law permits emergency actions such as injunctions or restraining orders to cease operations immediately.
- The MASH Rent Assistance Program (RAP) funding has been reopened and the application is now open new applicants.
- MASH serves as the primary agency for accountability of all certified homes in Massachusetts.
- Upon arriving at a sober-living house from rehab or detox, a woman can expect a safe and supportive environment that promotes long-term sobriety.
Partial or full coverage of sober house fees in MASH-certified sober homes to provide a stable living environment. The Access to Recovery (ATR) program is a federally funded initiative administered in Massachusetts by the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS). ATR provides individuals in recovery with financial assistance for sober living and other recovery-related services to help them rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Effective September 1, 2016, state agencies and their vendors shall only be able to refer clients to certified sober homes.
A Comprehensive Guide to Grants, Scholarships, and Funding Options for Sober Living in Massachusetts
It is a feeling.” Our certified sober homes take pride in offering a home-like environment that supports recovery. In 2014, legislation in Massachusetts further validated MASH’s efforts by creating a formal, voluntary certification for sober homes. This legislation allowed MASH to manage statewide certification, providing oversight and ensuring that homes met the established standards. Two years later, in 2016, state agencies and their vendors were required to refer clients only to MASH-certified homes, solidifying MASH’s role as the leading authority on sober housing in Massachusetts. MASH-certified sober homes must follow detailed standards covering resident rights, governance, safety, inspections, and operations. While sober homes provide structure and peer accountability, they are distinct from BSAS-licensed Recovery Homes, which deliver clinical care.
After review, MASH schedules an on-site inspection to alcohol rehab verify compliance with housing and operational standards. Once approved and fees are paid, the home is listed as certified on the MASH directory. Sober homes in Massachusetts follow rigorous safety and operational standards.
VSL’s Operator CommunityTap into the VSL community for hands-on mash sober housing training, proven resources, and trusted partners to accelerate your success. Certification costs $425 per year (effective July 1, 2024), which includes an inspection fee. Certified homes must renew annually, undergo reinspection, and notify MASH of any operational or management changes. Guests feel safe, comfortable and supported at all times. MASH schedules several Sober House 101 Trainings each year.
Do Need a License: Level III–IV & any program providing treatment
At Vanderburgh Sober Living, we specialize in helping individuals secure funding through programs like ATR as well as other financial assistance options available in Massachusetts. Supportive living in a structured environment such as a sober living house has proven in many cases to be the element that enables individuals to embrace the process of recovery. By choosing a sober living home that includes a team/staff, safe spaces, knowledge, and experience, you are sure to have all the tools to be able to recover from drugs and alcohol. Certifying your sober house through MASH is a critical step toward offering a safe, structured, and recovery-focused home for individuals rebuilding their lives. By following this process carefully and staying proactive, you’ll lay the foundation for a sober home that truly supports lasting recovery.
Property Description
Grievance policy and procedures, including the right to take grievances that are not resolved by the house leadership to the operation’s oversight organization for mediation. Policies and procedures that keep residents’ records secure, with access limited to authorized staff. Policies and procedures regarding collection of resident’s information. At minimum, data collection will protect individual’s identity, be used for continuous quality improvement, be part of day-to-day operations, and regularly reviewed by staff and residents (where appropriate). If none of these apply, you may operate as a non-licensed recovery residence (Level II), but must stay clear of offering treatment. Sober homes applying for annual recertification must remit payment of certification fees during the recertification process and prior to scheduling the home inspection.
Physical Environment Domain
The Bak Realty v. Fitchburg (2025) ruling affirmed that sober living homes are protected under anti-discrimination provisions but must still navigate local zoning case-by-case. Coming Home Worcester is an online directory of service agencies accessible to those experiencing re-entry. Coming Home Worcester does not make or accept referrals and is not able to assist individuals with services. If you have specific needs, please contact the agency that you feel may best be able to help you. Due to limited staff, we will not be able to respond to individual requests for referrals or assistance.
No, ATR requires a referral from an approved provider, such as a treatment program or social service agency. Applying for ATR funding involves several steps to ensure eligibility and secure financial support. ATR focuses on helping individuals overcome barriers to successful reintegration into society by offering support in areas such as housing, employment, and recovery coaching.
Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), individuals in recovery are recognized as persons with disabilities, granting them protection from housing discrimination. Municipalities are generally required to make reasonable accommodations in zoning and land use decisions. Once all of your required documents have been submitted and accepted by MASH, the next step is scheduling your on-site home inspection. Ongoing peer support to help individuals maintain sobriety and stay engaged in their recovery.
Evidence that residents have opportunities to be heard in the governance of the residence; however, decision making remains with the operator. Verification that written resident’s rights and requirements (e.g. residence rules and grievance process) are posted or otherwise available in common areas. Evidence that some rules are made by the residents that the residents (not the staff) implement.