I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed rules and regulations for recovery homes in Virginia. As they are currently written, these regulations could prevent Oxford Houses from continuing to operate as they have, and I strongly urge you to reconsider. The impact these changes could have on the people in recovery.

Recovery housing is a critical part of the recovery process. When someone leaves a treatment center, they often have nowhere safe to go. Many have damaged relationships with families and have not been able to work while in treatment and do not have enough money to afford an apartment. They may not have established credit or may not be able to pass a rental screening. With out recovery housing, many of these individuals would end up on the street, in unsafe environments, or around people and situations that contributed to their addiction in the first place. For someone struggling with addiction, that can be the difference between continuing recovery or losing their life to an overdose.

Oxford Houses are different from many other recovery residences because they are self-governing and peer-run. The residents themselves share responsibility for the house and hold one another accountable. This structure teaches people skills that are essential for long term recovery: accountability, responsibility, conflict resolution, and how to live and function successfully in the real world.

The importance of Oxford Houses is not simply to provide a roof over someone's head. They provide a safe environment where people can learn to become independent while supporting one another. Residents have the opportunity to work, rebuild their lives, establish financial stability and become active participating and productive members of their communities.

Recovery is more than completing treatment. People need a place where they can practice what they have learned in treatment and gradually rebuild their lives. A model in which peers take responsibility for themselves and one another allows residents to develop those skills rather than simply having someone paid to tell them what to do.

Please consider the people who are affected by these regulations. Please recognize the important role of Oxford Houses play in helping people transform from treatment into independent living, and please make changes that allow this proven peer supported model to continue operating in Virginia

People recovering from addiction need a safe place to go. They need stability, accountability, community and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. Please protect access to Oxford Houses and ensure Virginia continues to have recovery housing options for the people who need them most.

Thank you for taking the time to hear this concern and for considering the real world impact these regulations could have on individuals and families affected by addiction

Thank you for your time and consideration, 

Leigh Wolfe