Project NORTH: Financial Assistance for Sober Living in Massachusetts

Project NORTH in Massachusetts: How to Get Financial Help for Sober Living
Project NORTH (Navigating Opioid Recovery Through Housing) is a Massachusetts-based program designed to provide financial support for sober living and other essential services to individuals recovering from opioid use disorder (OUD).
If you or a loved one is struggling to afford sober housing, Project NORTH could be a valuable resource to help bridge the gap and support your recovery journey.
Looking for more funding options?
If you’re exploring financial assistance for sober living in Massachusetts, be sure to check out our Sober Living Financial Assistance in Massachusetts: Grants, Scholarships, and Funding. This resource covers a variety of programs, including government assistance, nonprofit grants, and other financial support opportunities.
What is Project NORTH?
Project NORTH is a statewide initiative funded by the Massachusetts Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS) aimed at helping individuals with opioid use disorder transition into stable sober living environments. The program provides short-term financial assistance to cover sober living costs and additional support to help individuals achieve self-sufficiency.
Project NORTH focuses on removing barriers to housing stability by offering financial aid, recovery coaching, and employment assistance to residents of MASH-certified sober houses.
Key Goals of Project NORTH:
- Supporting individuals in early recovery with financial assistance for sober living.
- Promoting self-sufficiency through employment and life skills development.
- Ensuring individuals have access to safe, structured housing environments.
- Reducing rates of homelessness and relapse among individuals recovering from opioid addiction.
What Services Does Project NORTH Cover?
The Project NORTH program provides funding for a range of services to support individuals in their recovery journey. These include:
Sober Living Financial Assistance:
- Partial or full coverage of sober house fees in MASH-certified sober homes.
- Short-term rental assistance to help individuals transition into stable housing.
Housing Navigation Services:
- Assistance with finding and securing long-term housing options.
- Help with rental applications and landlord communications.
Employment and Workforce Development:
- Support for job readiness programs and employment search assistance.
- Financial aid for vocational training, certifications, and job-related needs.
Recovery Coaching and Peer Support:
- Access to trained recovery coaches who provide guidance and encouragement.
- Ongoing peer support to help individuals maintain sobriety and stay engaged in their recovery.
Transportation Assistance:
- Support with travel to job interviews, recovery meetings, and housing-related appointments.
Who is Eligible for Project NORTH Sober House Funding?
To qualify for Project NORTH financial assistance, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Residency Requirements:
- Must be a resident of Massachusetts and plan to live in a MASH-certified sober house or other approved housing.
Recovery Status:
- Must be in early recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD) and engaged in treatment or aftercare programs.
- Priority is given to individuals who have recently completed a detox, residential, or outpatient treatment program.
Financial Need:
- Must demonstrate financial hardship and an inability to afford sober living costs independently.
Referral Requirements:
- Project NORTH funding is typically accessed through referrals from addiction treatment providers, case managers, or correctional institutions.
Need Help Accessing Project NORTH Funding for Sober Living?
Navigating the financial assistance process for sober living can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Vanderburgh Sober Living, we specialize in helping individuals secure funding through programs like Project NORTH as well as other financial assistance options available in Massachusetts.
Click here to apply or call us at (844) 762-3747 to begin the process and learn how we can connect you with the resources you need to continue your recovery journey!
How to Apply for Project NORTH Assistance
Applying for Project NORTH funding involves several steps to ensure eligibility and secure financial support.
Step 1: Obtain a Referral
Project NORTH is not a self-referral program. Individuals must be referred by a qualified provider, such as:
- Treatment centers (detox, residential, outpatient programs).
- Recovery coaches or case managers.
- Correctional facility discharge coordinators.
Step 2: Complete an Assessment
Once referred, applicants will complete an assessment to determine their financial need and suitability for the program. The assessment covers:
- Current living situation.
- Recovery progress and goals.
- Financial status and employment history.
Step 3: Choose a MASH-Certified Sober House
Applicants must choose a sober living home that meets MASH (Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing) standards.
View VSL Chartered MASH Certified sober houses here
Step 4: Approval and Funding Disbursement
If approved, Project NORTH funding will be paid directly to the sober house to cover housing costs. Additional support services, such as employment assistance and recovery coaching, may also be provided.
How Long Does Project NORTH Assistance Last?
Project NORTH financial assistance is typically short-term, designed to support individuals during the critical early months of recovery. The exact length of assistance may vary based on funding availability and individual needs, but it generally covers:
- Initial move-in costs (security deposit and first month’s rent).
- Short-term rental support (up to several months).
- Ongoing support services such as job readiness programs and recovery coaching.
Common Questions About Project NORTH Sober House
1. Can I apply for Project NORTH on my own?
No, Project NORTH requires a referral from an approved provider, such as a treatment program or social service agency.
2. Does Project NORTH cover all sober living costs?
Project NORTH typically provides partial financial assistance, but it may cover full costs depending on financial need and program funding.
3. Is Project NORTH available statewide?
Yes, Project NORTH funding is available across Massachusetts but is subject to funding availability and eligibility criteria.
4. How do I know if a sober house is MASH-certified?
VSL-network homes are MASH Certified.
Where to Get More Information
Individuals interested in applying for ATR funding or seeking more details can:
- Apply with VSL to get started or to request more information about RAP Funding
- Call VSL at (844) 762-3747 to talk with an Intake Coordinator
- Contact their local treatment provider, counselor, or case manager for assistance with the application process.