Providence Place

The Basics

In 2011 in Portland, Maine, Charlie Deroche and Gary Lamson, recovering alcoholics who share the same sponsor, founded Providence Place. Their mission is to provide safe and sober living, allowing men the opportunity to pursue a spiritual way of life. They believe that the principles outlined by the 12 steps are the key to long term, successful recovery.

Accommodations and Amenities

Located in a historic district, Providence Place is in the heart of Portland, close to shopping and public transportation. Two male-only Victorian-style houses are side by side, accommodating 10 men in one house and 15 in another. Besides the residents, there are three live-in managers. The men share double-occupancy rooms, painted in light colors, giving a sense of airiness. Furnishings include dressers, twin beds and old-fashioned lamps.

Amenities in the houses include a recreation room, a meditation room and on-site coin-operated laundry facilities. Residents purchase their own groceries and prepare their own meals in fully equipped kitchens, which are tastefully decorated.

Rules and Regulations

Prior to being admitted, potential clients are interviewed and are asked to visit the houses. This is to ensure that all parties feel Providence Place is the right match. The facility seeks residents willing to work and accept 12-step principles into their lives. Clients must be clean and sober for at least seven days, and have undergone detox. All medications must be pre-approved, and Providence Place forbids some medications, including Suboxone, benzodiazepines, Ritalin and muscle relaxants.

A three-month minimum stay is required. During the first 30 days, clients undergo a probationary period. This is a time of orientation where clients become acquainted with the 12 steps. During this period, clients join a home group, get a sponsor, work the steps and get a job or pursue their education. The nightly curfew during orientation is 11 pm.

After the probationary period, the curfew is extended to 1 am. Weekly requirements include attending a minimum of four 12-step meetings and the house meeting. At Providence Place, residents are also required to participate in one-on-one counseling sessions with house managers. Topics such as relapse prevention, life skills and 12-step principles are discussed. Random drug and alcohol tests are conducted. Those testing positive are evicted immediately.

The 30-day cost is between $600 and $700 (depending on residence). Additionally, a security deposit between $300 and $350 is expected, and bed reservations cost $150, which is later applied to the security deposit.

Extras

The recreation room includes weights, a ping pong table and several treadmills. Clients are encouraged to exercise and also participate in meditation classes facilitated by staff.

In Summary

Providence Place provides a perfect setting for men seeking to build a sober, spiritual lifestyle. Houses are also in the midst of a bustling community, full of job opportunities, recovery support meetings and artistic venues. Men wishing to immerse themselves in the 12-steps will fit right in here.

Providence Place
19 Bramhill St
Portland, ME 04102

Providence Place Cost: $600-$700 (30 days). Reach Providence Place by phone at (207) 671-1233 or by email at manager@providenceplacemaine.org. Find Providence Place on Facebook and Google+

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