NCJ Number
123422
Journal
Contemporary Drug Problems Volume: 16 Issue: 3 Dated: (Fall 1989) Pages: 453-482
Date Published
1989
Length
30 pages
Annotation
This article describes a preliminary effort to examine connections between alcohol treatment programs and homelessness in Santa Clara County, Calif.
Abstract
In late 1987 The California Bureau of Alcohol Services surveyed participants in county-funded residential alcohol treatment programs, including the jail program, to determine to what extent these programs serve the homeless population. Those surveyed were the 325 persons residing in county-funded recovery homes, detoxification programs, or the one three-quarter-way home. Program participants were questioned about their current living arrangements, where they had been living during the 28 days prior to program entrance, and where they expected to live following graduation or discharge. Findings suggest that the majority of persons served by detoxification and recovery home programs are homeless; however, the majority of those in the three-quarter-way and jail multiple offender program had housing. Although the bulk of the county's alcohol resources are currently being used for persons convicted of drunk driving, these persons tend not to be homeless. More resources are required for the housing needs of those in alcohol treatment programs. In planning for postrecovery, housing must be a major concern. The development of sober-living units that require a modest investment is a promising direction. 4 notes, 47 references.