Sober Living Financial Assistance in Massachusetts: Grants, Scholarships, and Funding

A Comprehensive Guide to Grants, Scholarships, and Funding Options for Sober Living in Massachusetts
Sober houses play a crucial role in the recovery journey, providing a safe, structured, and supportive environment for individuals transitioning from treatment to independent living. These homes help residents maintain sobriety by offering peer support, accountability, and a substance-free environment—key factors in long-term recovery success.
In Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing (MASH) oversees the certification of sober houses to ensure they meet high standards of safety and support. MASH-certified sober houses provide residents with a structured living environment that aligns with best practices for addiction recovery.
Despite the benefits of sober living, many individuals face financial challenges when trying to access housing. This guide is designed to help individuals in Massachusetts identify funding options that can assist with the cost of sober housing. Whether you’re looking for government programs, nonprofit grants, or faith-based assistance, this resource outlines the key options available to help you on your recovery journey.
Do you need help accessing sober house funding?
Our team is here to help! Call (844) 762-3747 or apply online to get the assistance you need.
Residential Assistance Program (RAP) for Sober Living in Massachusetts
The Residential Assistance Program (RAP) provides temporary financial assistance to individuals in early recovery who need help covering the cost of sober living in MASH-certified sober houses. Managed in partnership with the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS), RAP funding helps remove financial barriers to accessing safe, supportive housing during the crucial transition from treatment to independent living.
Key Highlights of the RAP Sober Living Funding Program:
- Who It’s For: Individuals in early recovery who have completed or are engaged in a treatment program and demonstrate financial need.
- What It Covers: Initial move-in costs (such as rent deposits and first month’s rent) and short-term rent support.
- Eligibility: Must plan to reside in a MASH-certified sober house and provide proof of financial need and recovery status.
- How to Apply: Applicants typically need a referral from a treatment provider and must submit documentation through MASH or their sober house administrator.
Learn more: Residential Assistance Program (RAP) for Sober Living Residents in Massachusetts
Access to Recovery (ATR) Sober Living Funding in Massachusetts
The Access to Recovery (ATR) program provides financial assistance to individuals in early recovery who need help covering the cost of sober living in MASH-certified sober houses. Administered by the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS), ATR funding helps individuals transition from treatment to stable housing, supporting their journey to long-term recovery and self-sufficiency.
Key Highlights of the ATR Sober House Resident Grant Program:
- Who It’s For: Individuals in early recovery who have completed or are engaged in a treatment program and demonstrate financial need.
- What It Covers: Partial or full sober house fees, short-term rental assistance, employment support, and recovery coaching.
- Eligibility: Must be a Massachusetts resident, demonstrate financial hardship, and obtain a referral from a treatment provider or case manager.
- How to Apply: Applicants need a referral from an approved provider and must complete an assessment to determine financial need and eligibility.
Learn more: Access to Recovery (ATR) Sober Living Funding in Massachusetts
Project NORTH Financial Assistance for Sober Living in Massachusetts
Project NORTH (Navigating Opioid Recovery Through Housing) provides financial support to individuals recovering from opioid use disorder (OUD) who need help covering the cost of sober living in MASH-certified sober houses. Funded by the Massachusetts Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS), Project NORTH helps individuals transition from treatment or correctional settings to stable, supportive housing while offering additional recovery resources such as employment assistance and case management services.
Key Highlights of the Project NORTH Program:
- Who It’s For: Individuals in early recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD) who have recently completed or are engaged in a treatment or aftercare program.
- What It Covers: Partial or full sober house fees, short-term rental support, employment assistance, and transportation aid.
- Eligibility: Must be a Massachusetts resident, demonstrate financial need, and obtain a referral from an approved provider such as a treatment center or case manager.
- How to Apply: Applicants need a referral and must complete an assessment to determine financial need and recovery goals.
Learn more: Project NORTH: Financial Assistance for Sober Living in Massachusetts
Nonprofit and Recovery Organizations offering Sober Living Grants
Power Forward: Sober Living Financial Assistance in Massachusetts
Power Forward is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals in early recovery by providing financial assistance for sober living in Massachusetts. Their mission is to empower individuals on their recovery journey by offering funding to cover sober house fees and related expenses, ensuring access to safe and supportive housing.
Key Highlights of the Power Forward Program:
- Who It’s For: Individuals in early recovery who need financial support to access sober living.
- What It Covers: Partial financial assistance for sober house fees and essential recovery-related expenses.
- Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a commitment to ongoing recovery efforts.
- How to Apply: Applications can be submitted directly through the Power Forward website.
Herren Project: Recovery Housing & Coaching Scholarships
Herren Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals in recovery from substance use disorder. One of its key initiatives is providing Recovery Housing Scholarships, offering financial assistance for sober living arrangements to help individuals transition into a structured, supportive environment.
Key Highlights of the Herren Project Program:
- Who It’s For: Individuals who have recently completed addiction treatment and are motivated to continue their recovery journey in a sober living environment. The program is designed for those facing financial challenges in securing stable housing post-treatment.
- What It Covers: The Recovery Housing Scholarship provides financial assistance for rent at a vetted sober house over a seven-week period.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be currently enrolled in an addiction treatment program, be referred by a case manager, counselor, or be a current Herren Project client, demonstrate motivation for recovery and a commitment to living in a structured sober house, and be willing to work with an assigned Herren Project recovery coach. Applicants must also have completed all treatment goals, adhere to facility rules, participate in group sessions, and have a strong aftercare plan in place.
- How to Apply: Apply online through the Herren Project website.
- Referral: Applicants must obtain a referral from their case manager or counselor.
- Personal Statement: Both the applicant and case manager must submit personal statements explaining why the scholarship is needed and how it will support recovery goals.
- Submission: Applications are reviewed weekly, but due to funding limitations, not all applicants may be approved.
Curran’s Calling: Recovery Scholarships for Sober Living
Curran’s Calling is a nonprofit scholarship foundation dedicated to helping individuals seeking recovery access structured sober living by providing financial assistance. Their scholarships bridge the gap between inpatient treatment and independent living, relieving some of the financial burden placed on individuals and their families. In addition to financial support, Curran’s Calling offers life-skills mentoring and recovery coaching to help recipients rebuild their lives with confidence and stability.
Key Highlights of the Curran’s Calling Program:
- Who It’s For: Individuals in early recovery who need financial support to transition from inpatient treatment to structured sober living, with the goal of achieving long-term independence.
- What It Covers: Up to $750 to cover move-in costs and/or room and board at a vetted sober house, followed by an additional $500 after completing 30 days in the program. Those who successfully complete their sober living stay and meet program criteria may qualify for an Independent Living Scholarship of up to $3,000 to help cover first and last month’s rent.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be seeking recovery housing in Massachusetts (with plans to expand to New Hampshire and Rhode Island) and meet the program’s criteria for financial need, program engagement, and readiness for independent living.
- How to Apply: Individuals must complete an application through Curran’s Calling and provide documentation of their recovery journey and financial need. Scholarship funds are paid directly to approved recovery residences.
The Sunrise Fund: Recovery Scholarships for Sober Living
The Sunrise Fund is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals in their journey toward sustained addiction recovery. Established in memory of Jillian Latham, the fund provides financial assistance for sober living placements across New England, offering critical support to those transitioning from treatment to stable housing.
Key Highlights of the Sunrise Fund Program:
- Who It’s For: Massachusetts residents, with a focus on the North Shore area, who have completed or are currently engaged in addiction treatment and are committed to long-term recovery within a 12-step program.
- What It Covers: The scholarship provides funding for the first month’s rent in a Sunrise Fund-approved sober house. Additional financial support may be considered based on progress and continued commitment to recovery.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be substance-free, not participating in Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), have acceptance into a Sunrise Fund-approved sober house, actively engage in a 12-step program with a sponsor, and have a professional recommendation if in a CSS or TSS program. Applicants must not have received funding in the past 12 months.
- How to Apply: Applicants must complete an application on the Sunrise Fund website, provide references, and participate in an interview if requested. Upon approval, placement is coordinated directly with an approved sober house, and recipients are expected to provide updates on their recovery progress.
Faith-Based Scholarship Programs for Sober Living
Catholic Charities: Financial Assistance for Individuals in Recovery
Catholic Charities in Massachusetts provides a range of services aimed at supporting individuals and families facing financial hardships. While they do not offer a program specifically for funding sober living arrangements, their assistance programs can help alleviate financial burdens related to housing, utilities, and basic needs—offering crucial support during the recovery process.
Catholic Charities’ services can be particularly beneficial for individuals transitioning from treatment to sober living, as they work to restore financial stability and secure long-term housing.
Available Assistance Programs:
- Living Assistance: Catholic Charities Boston provides emergency financial aid to eligible individuals to help them stay in their homes and avoid displacement while they work toward financial independence.
- Rental and Utility Assistance: The Worcester County branch offers limited financial support for rent, mortgage payments, and utility bills to prevent eviction and service shut-offs.
- Emergency Fuel Assistance: For individuals facing heating emergencies, Catholic Charities may provide support to ensure a safe and warm living environment.
- Transitional Housing Support: In special cases, Catholic Charities can assist individuals moving from shelters to stable housing due to safety concerns, domestic violence, or other urgent needs.
Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility for assistance programs may vary by program and location. In general, Catholic Charities prioritizes individuals and families who:
- Have received utility shut-off notices or court summons for eviction.
- Live in public housing and have been served a notice to quit letter.
- Require emergency fuel assistance to maintain heating.
- Need to relocate due to safety concerns such as domestic violence or transitioning from a shelter.
How to Apply:
Individuals interested in receiving assistance should follow these steps:
Contact the Nearest Catholic Charities Location: Reach out to the nearest office and request to speak with a Basic Needs Case Manager.
Pre-Screening Process: A case manager will assess your situation and explain available support options and the application process.
Prepare Documentation: Applicants must provide supporting documents, which may include:
- Utility shut-off notices
- Eviction notices
- Proof of income
- Identification (such as a driver’s license or ID card)
Contact Information:
Here are some Catholic Charities locations in Massachusetts that provide financial assistance:
- Brockton: Catholic Charities South, 169 Court St., Brockton, MA 02302, Phone: 508-587-0815
- Dorchester: Yawkey Center, 185 Columbia Road, Dorchester, MA 02125, Phone: 617-506-6600
- Lowell: Catholic Charities Merrimack Valley, 70 Lawrence Street, Lowell, MA 01852, Phone: 617-451-7988
- Lynn: Catholic Charities North, 117 N. Common St., Lynn, MA 01902, Phone: 617-451-7930
- Salem: Catholic Charities North, 280 Washington St., Salem, MA 01970, Phone: 617-464-8071
- Somerville: 270 Washington St., Somerville, MA 02143, Phone: 617-506-6671
Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP): Financial Assistance for Sober Living
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) is a global Catholic organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families in need through various charitable services. In Massachusetts, SVdP operates local conferences that provide short-term emergency financial assistance, which may include support for individuals transitioning from addiction treatment to sober living environments.
Key Highlights of the St. Vincent de Paul Program:
- Who It’s For: Individuals and families facing financial hardship, including those transitioning from addiction treatment who need financial assistance for sober living. Assistance is available regardless of religious affiliation.
- What It Covers: Some local SVdP conferences may offer sober living rent assistance, such as covering the first month’s rent to help individuals secure employment and achieve financial stability. Additional services may include rent and utility assistance, food and clothing support, and referrals to other community resources.
- Eligibility: Assistance criteria vary by location, but generally, individuals must demonstrate financial need and reside within the service area of a local SVdP conference.
- How to Apply: Applicants should locate their nearest SVdP conference, contact them to inquire about available programs, and undergo a confidential needs assessment conducted by an SVdP volunteer (Vincentian). In Boston, please visit https://www.svdpboston.org/
Sober House Funding for Specific Populations
♀️ Sober House Funding for Women
Rise Again: Structured Sober Living Scholarships for Women
Rise Again: The Sabrina Best Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Massachusetts women in recovery by providing financial assistance for sober living. Their Structured Sober Living Scholarship helps women transition from treatment to sober living by covering their first month’s rent, giving them time to find employment and achieve financial stability.
Key Highlights of the Rise Again Program:
- Who It’s For: Women in Massachusetts who have completed or are currently in active addiction treatment and need financial assistance to transition into sober living.
- What It Covers: Up to one month’s rent in a MASH-certified and Rise Again-approved sober house, with the possibility of renewal based on need and progress. Payments are made directly to the sober living home. Recipients are required to check in with Rise Again after two weeks.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be Massachusetts residents, be accepted into an approved sober living home, and have a recommendation from a clinician, case manager, probation officer, or treatment center personnel if in CSS or TSS. Applicants must not have received Rise Again assistance within the past year.
- How to Apply: Interested women must submit an application through Rise Again’s website, providing references and participating in an interview process. Each application is reviewed by the board to ensure eligibility and suitability.
🏛️ Support for Individuals Involved with the Criminal Justice System
Probation/Parole Grant Program: Grants for Individuals on Probation and/or Parole
The Probation/Parole Grant Program in Massachusetts is designed to support individuals transitioning from incarceration to sober living environments. Established by the Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing (MASH), this program provides financial assistance to those under probation or parole supervision, helping them secure stable, structured housing in MASH-certified sober homes.
Key Highlights of the Probation/Parole Grant Program:
- Who It’s For: Individuals currently on probation or parole who lack stable housing options and need financial assistance to transition into sober living.
- What It Covers: Funding to cover initial housing costs in MASH-certified sober homes, helping individuals overcome financial barriers during reentry.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be under probation or parole supervision and be referred by an authorized officer.
- How to Apply: Eligible individuals are referred by their probation or parole officer, undergo an assessment to determine their housing needs, and are placed in a MASH-certified sober home with program funds covering initial housing expenses.
VSL accepts the Probation/Parole Grant and can walk you through the process. Call (844) 762-3747 or apply to get started
🏳️🌈 Sober House Funding for LGBTQIA+
Release Recovery Foundation: LGBTQIA+ Sober Living Scholarship
The Release Recovery Foundation offers the Nic Pagano LGBTQIA+ Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance to individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community seeking support for sober living and addiction treatment. This scholarship was established to help address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in recovery, such as stigma, discrimination, and a lack of communal inclusion in treatment settings.
Key Highlights of the Release Recovery Foundation Program:
- Who It’s For: Individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community who need financial assistance for sober living and substance use treatment after committing to a recovery program.
- What It Covers: Financial scholarships to cover sober living costs and comprehensive addiction treatment, with a focus on addressing stigma, heterosexism, and internalized homophobia.
- Eligibility: Applicants must identify as LGBTQIA+, demonstrate financial need, and be committed to pursuing recovery through a treatment or sober living program.
- How to Apply: Individuals can apply by contacting the Release Recovery Foundation via phone or email. Scholarships are awarded in partnership with Caron Treatment Center.
How VSL Can Help You Access Sober Living Funding in Massachusetts
At Vanderburgh Sober Living, we understand that navigating the financial assistance process for sober housing can be overwhelming. That’s why our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step—from identifying the right funding options to completing the application process.
Whether you’re seeking assistance through government programs like RAP, ATR, or Project NORTH, or exploring nonprofit and faith-based grants, we have the expertise to connect you with the right resources and ensure a smooth transition into a MASH-certified sober house.
Why Choose Vanderburgh Sober Living?
- Expert Guidance: Our team is well-versed in all available funding options and can help determine the best fit for your situation.
- Seamless Application Support: We assist with paperwork, referrals, and the overall application process to increase your chances of approval.
- Safe & Supportive Housing: We offer MASH-certified sober living environments designed to support your recovery journey.