KENTWOOD, Mich. — It’s seen as a soft step back into society; men recovering from addiction and getting readjusted to life.
Today marked the opening of a new transitional home supported by Christian-based mission, Guiding Light Mission. It’s called Iron House Sober Living.
Kevin Bouwens is fresh out of his recovery program and ready for a new start. But, he knows the process can be difficult, so he helped create this transitional housing.
“The bills start coming and the car payments start coming and the rent starts coming and its like, whoa I forgot about that,” said Bouwens.
“It’s really like kind of grooming a child at home,” said Stuart Ray, Executive Director for Guiding Light Mission.
The Grand Rapids’ non-profit is offering men the chance to ease back into society with these affordable apartment units. According to Ray, the recovery process can be difficult and costly.
“The average man comes with $25,000 worth of financial debt when he arrives,” said Ray. This home will help get men get used to paying bills, like rent and utilities.
In order to live in one of these four units, the men must demonstrate they have a steady job, save enough money and go through an application process. And, the fact it’s in a neighborhood and not downtown, gets the men away from temptation, and gives them a sense of community.
Bouwens is optimistic.
“This is a great next step for me. It’s affordable and its comfortable living and I’m very excited about the whole process.”
One unit is available right now. The other three are expected to be finished by the middle of next month.
This is just a temporary living situation. It will accommodate seven men at a time. They’re expected to save enough money and eventually move on after six month.
