Homes proposed for men recovering from addiction
Charity hopes to raise $3 million to build 51-suite complex in Rutland
A 51-suite residence in Rutland is planned for men recovering from addictions and mental health issues.
Freedom House, a faith-based charity, hopes to raise $3.1 million to build the complex at the corner of McCurdy Road and Rutland Road.
“We have the land; we need the development money,” says Tom Smithwick, a Kelowna lawyer involved with Freedom House.
The group already operates five duplexes in Kelowna, housing a total of 50 men who are trying to put a high-risk lifestyle behind them.
“We usually have a waiting list of 30 to 40 men seeking recovery,” Smithwick says.
The hoped-for new building would provide a stable and secure place to live for men who’ve gone through a counselling program offered by Freedom’s Door.
“The dilemma for the men leaving our program is a lack of clean, affordable and supportive housing. How can these men remain sober if they have no home and no support?” Smithwick says.
The Resurrection Recovery Resource Society, founded in 2002, runs Freedom’s Door. The society’s website says that “addictions treatment is most effective when delivered through a Twelve Step program supported by Christian principles.”
Men helped by Freedom’s Door come from a variety of backgrounds.
“Most clients come from life on the streets, from jail, or are referred by agencies helping the poor, addicted and the mentally challenged,” the group’s website says.
In 2014, the group won the Volunteer Organization of the Year award in the City of Kelowna’s civic awards program.
The fundraising program will officially launch soon, and the group hopes to start the residence within a year, with completion in 2019.