Discharge Criteria and Procedure

Discharge Criteria

Residents may be discharged from Next Steps Housing under the following conditions:

  1. Successful Completion of Program
    • Resident has maintained continuous sobriety and demonstrated stability.
    • Completion of required program activities, including meetings, counseling, and employment/education goals.
    • Approval from house management confirming readiness for independent living.
  2. Voluntary Discharge
    • Resident chooses to leave the program for personal reasons.
    • A minimum of 7-day notice is required for voluntary departure.
    • Exit interview conducted to discuss transition plan and post-discharge support.
  3. Non-Compliance with House Rules
    • Repeated violations of house policies, including curfew, chores, and conduct.
    • Failure to meet financial obligations.
    • Disruptive behavior affecting the safety and well-being of other residents.
  4. Relapse or Substance Use
    • Any drug or alcohol use will result in an immediate review.
    • Depending on circumstances, resident may be given an opportunity to seek treatment and reapply.
    • A relapse recovery plan may be required for re-entry consideration.
  5. Legal or Safety Concerns
    • Arrests or legal issues that interfere with residency.
    • Threats or acts of violence, theft, or possession of prohibited substances.
    • Any behavior deemed unsafe for the resident or the community.

Discharge Plan

To ensure a smooth transition, the following steps will be taken before a resident leaves:

  1. Exit Interview & Assessment
    • Review of progress, challenges, and future plans.
    • Provide resources for continued sobriety support.
  2. Housing and Employment Support
    • Assistance in finding stable housing if needed.
    • Referrals for employment support and continued education.
  3. Continued Recovery Planning
    • Connection to outpatient treatment, therapy, or recovery meetings.
    • Provide information on local support groups and sponsors
  4. Deposit Refund

    Residents deposit will be refunds as long as they have exited the house appropriately
    • Their room is cleaned:
      • All trash and personal belongings removed
      • Floors vacuumed
      • House owned bedding to be taken to the laundry room
    • There is no damage to the property inside or out
    • Their refrigerator(s) are cleaned
      • All Food is removed and either taken with them or disposed of
      • The refrigerator is wiped down inside and out