Agape House Hopes To Offer Help To Those Recovering From Addiction

By Tammy Gray-Searles
   “We’re giving them an opportunity to live in a situation that will be productive as far as recovery goes,” said Agape House representative Pauline Tanner about two new step-down recovery facilities expected to open soon in Winslow.
   A public hearing on a conditional use permit being sought for the residential facilities is scheduled at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, at the Winslow City Council Chambers. Following the hearing, the Winslow Planning and Zoning Commission will discuss and may decide whether to approve the permit request.
   “We’re at a standstill until we get the permit,” Tanner explained. “Until we get the conditional permit, we can’t have people in there. We need the permit to get insurance.”
   If approved, the facilities, located at 500 and 510 W. Gilmore St., will house up to five clients each, with men in one house and women in the other. The houses will provide a safe and sober environment for individuals who are either returning from addiction treatment or undergoing outpatient treatment.
   According to Tanner, Agape House plans to offer services that will help clients return to work and rebuild their lives. Job training and resume writing will be offered, as well as other basic life skills such as balancing a checkbook.
   “We want them to be able to be productive citizens of the community,” she remarked. “We want to try to help those who have fallen on hard times and seriously want to get their lives back in order.”
   While Agape House is not associated with the Loma Puh’ Ta Vi (Beautiful Pathway) stabilization centers in Holbrook and Winslow, Tanner noted that clients will likely be referred from the centers to Agape House. The homes will give those who have been stabilized a place to live while they receive outpatient treatment.
   As a non-profit organization, Agape House also expects to work closely with other Winslow non-profits, such as Winslow Guidance Associates, local counselors and churches.
   “We’ll be working with other agencies, and if they have clients who need to live there, they can,” she said.
   Tanner noted that in addition to offering services to individuals affected by addiction, the homes will also serve as a safe harbor or transitional home for those affected by domestic violence.
   Plans are also in the works for a third house to be opened that will offer a safe environment for families, including children.
   “When it’s up and going, our goal will be to help people better themselves,” Tanner remarked.
   The two homes currently up for consideration for a special use permit are nearly ready for occupancy upon issuance of the permit. Tanner noted that Agape House does not own the homes, but is leasing them from a private owner.
   Citizens wishing to comment on the plans are welcome to attend the Planning and Zoning Commission hearing.