MASH MASH Standards

MASH serves as the primary agency for accountability for all certified sober homes in Massachusetts. The sober house certification standards set by MASH can be found here. Effective September 1, 2016, state agencies and their vendors are only able to refer clients to certified alcohol and drug-free (ADF) housing. In https://ecosoberhouse.com/ accordance with this requirement, MASH serves as the primary agency for accountability of all certified homes in Massachusetts. Our organization also provides supervision and training for sober homes, and maintains a database of more than 180 MASH-certified sober homes. As we say often at MASH, “Home is not a place.

Written permission from the property owner of record (if the owner is other than the sober home operator) to operate a sober home on the property. Documentation that the owner/operator has current liability coverage and other insurance appropriate to the level of support. We promote and enforce the SAMHSA recognized National Alliance for Recovery Residences standards. After a referral is received, our Housing Coordinator will reach out to the individual to schedule an intake appointment. Engagement in informal activities is encouraged. Community or residence meetings are held at least once a week.

Clean, Safe, Affordable Sober Housing

Are you a state agency, licensed provider, individual, or family looking for a MASH-certified sober home? Search our directory to find a list of all MASH-certified sober homes. All MASH-certified sober homes follow the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) standards and have been independently inspected. To support persons in recovery by improving their access to safe, stable residences with peer and community support. MASH’s recovery values emphasize health, home, purpose, and community.

Prior to the initial acceptance of any funds, the operator must inform applicants of all fees and charges for which they will be, or could potentially be, responsible. This information needs to be in writing and signed by the applicant. 19.a Verification that emergency numbers, procedures (including overdose and other emergency responses) and evacuation maps are posted in conspicuous locations. Policy prohibits the use of alcohol and/or illicit drug use or seeking. Verification that entertainment or recreational areas and/or furnishings promoting social engagement are provided. Verification that furnishings are typical of those in single family homes or apartments as opposed to institutional settings.

WHAT DO ATR PARTICIPANTS RECEIVE?

Verification that each resident has food storage space. Verification that each resident has personal item storage. Policies and procedures that serve the priority population, which at a minimum include persons in recovery from substance use but may also include other demographic criteria. Policies that value mash certified sober homes individuals chosen for leadership roles who are versed and trained in the Social Model of recovery and best practices of the profession. Evidence that staff are encouraged to have a network of support. Evidence that some rules are made by the residents that the residents (not the staff) implement.

In 2007, eight sober home operators established the nonprofit Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing. Legislation in 2014 created voluntary certification of Massachusetts sober homes, and MASH began managing voluntary statewide sober home certification in 2016. A weekly schedule details recovery support services, events and activities. Evidence that residents increase recovery capital through such things as recovery support and community service, work/employment, etc.

G. Core Principle: Facilitate Active Recovery and Recovery Community Engagement

Sober home services provide  wrap-around support to ATR participants experiencing housing instability by addressing both their housing and recovery needs. Referred by a community provider, an eligible ATR participant will work with an ATR Housing Coordinator to find a sober home that meets their needs. ATR will pay the sober home rent and will assign a peer recovery coach to work alongside the participant for the duration of their stay in the sober home. One of the biggest obstacles to an addict’s recovery is finding clean, safe, affordable housing which will allow the individual to fully pursue their recovery. Due to a shortage in structured sober housing, Faith House has dedicated its efforts to provide the highest quality, membership based, structured sober living community in Boston, Massachusetts. All of the Faith House properties have been thoughtfully updated and maintained providing the clean, safe, comfortable space needed for the individuals to succeed in their recovery.

Trained staff (peer and clinical) provide learning opportunities. We are active from the local to the state level, continuously advocating for the rights of sober home residents and operators. Our women’s sober home is a safe and supportive environment for women in recovery. It is a place where they can feel comfortable and be themselves, surrounded by other women who understand the unique challenges they face in their recovery journey.

Verification that written resident’s rights and requirements (e.g. residence rules and grievance process) are posted or otherwise available in common areas. Policy and procedures that ensure all residents are age eighteen or older at time of admission. Amenities include on site laundry, air conditioning, parking, full kitchens, living/dining rooms and quick access to public transportation. Our staff is kind, thoughtful and approachable.

• Guests feel safe, comfortable and mash certified sober homes supported at all times.
• This legislation limits state agencies and their vendors to referring to certified ADF housing.
• What’s the difference between a sober home and a recovery residence?
• Evidence that mechanisms exist for residents to inform and help guide operations and advocate for community-building.