Our Program

Paula’s House opened on September 11, 2005 and is the first project for Women Empowering Women, Inc. It is based upon the Positive Choices four phase program designed for 5 women who have substance abuse issues, who are homeless and who are possibly on probation or parole for non-violent offenses.The program is designed to last 1-2 years and will have 24-hour staffing. Residents in the fourth phase will have vehicles, their own residence and will visit the home on a regular basis.

Paula’s House offers:

A positive homelike environment for women who want to change personally, spiritually, and emotionally. An individualized personal goal plan focusing on recovery and self improvement. Education focusing on living sober, anger management, coping skills, problem solving, nutrition, relapse prevention, medical effects of addiction, parenting skills, rational emotive behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, and implementing community resources will be provided offsite. Connection with community resources. Referral for substance abuse group, individual and family counseling to be provided offsite.

Referrals for physical examinations and for ongoing medical care will be provided to offsite locations. Medical follow-up and referral services will be provided offsite. Psychiatric/Psychological evaluation and referrals to counseling/group will be provided offsite. Employment training and education will be provided off site.

The primary goal is for women to live in a safe environment and face her demons while living a sober lifestyle.

Admission Criteria

1. Residents must be homeless and have substance abuse problems.
2. The client must be seeking admission without persuasion or coercion and be willing to sign a contract and/or treatment plan to participate in all four phases.
3. Physician verifies that the client meets the diagnostic criteria as defined in the DSM IV, for alcohol/drug dependence and/or abuse.
4. ASI and medical examination indicate that the client is medically appropriate and stable. If a medical condition exists, proper action will be taken to assist the client.
5. Client is ambulatory or there are no medical complications that would hamper the client’s ability to participate in the program.
6. The client is coherent, rational and oriented in all spheres.
7. The client has the social skills to obtain a support system or to become involved in a self-help fellowship.
8. The client is willing to sign payment plan.

Note:

Board Members and their families will be given referrals and will not be eligible to participate in residency at Paula’s House as this would be a conflict of interest.

In 2006:

Women Empowering Women, Inc., was fortunate enough to receive a grant from the Housing of Urban Development and hope to expand enough to have more homes for women and eventually provide services to women with their children.