An update to two #FindingHope stories we brought you last week:
A question on an application for Boise Rescue Mission's addiction recovery program asks applicant's willingness to "adhere" to a heterosexual lifestyle. Since my initial story aired, the question started numerous conversations on social media about what other resources may be available.
As I previously reported, of the programs that are welcoming to LGBTQ people in the Treasure Valley, there are no free residential recovery programs longer than 30 days. But as 6 On Your Side has now exclusively learned, that may soon change.
“To these people who have said, 'I really wanna get clean and sober,’ we’re gonna help them," said Jodi Peterson-Stigers, Executive Director at Interfaith Sanctuary.
Interfaith Sanctuary is in the pre-planning stages of working with Allumbaugh House and other agencies to bring a free, long-term, live-in recovery program to their shelter.
"No matter your sex, your race, your [religion], your sexual orientation-- no matter what, we will give you shelter and care and programming as long as you can be kind to everyone.”
Patients will be able to stay on-site 24 hours a day, and can receive services for as long as they need, according to Peterson-Stigers.
“Adding this new program we were a little scared that we wouldn’t have the space, and we talked to one of our donors, his name’s Nick Guho.”
The construction company owner donated a portable classroom for social workers and trauma experts to work with patients in.
“The access makes it so much easier for someone; when they wake up in the morning, they’re starting in the program," said Peterson-Stigers.
Under the new plan, patients will first detox for a week at Allumbaugh House. Then, this new program will help maintain recovery.
“It’s counseling, it’s group therapy, it’s stress reduction, it’s nutrition, it’s naps, it’s things like that-- that help your body get whole again, your mind get whole again."
Peterson-Stigers says the program will start small, with only 12 approved patients, but hopes it will grow in time with support from the community.
Meetings to finalize the programming with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare are set up for next week. Peterson-Stigers hopes to begin the program in mid-September.
How can you help support the new programming? By buying a ticket to Interfaith Sanctuary's Homecoming Gala and Awards show at JUMP Boise on Saturday, October 5. Peterson-Stigers says the yearly event is a keystone fundraiser that directly supports programming like this. Click here to buy a ticket or learn more.
