Sober homes support various abstinence-based pathways to recovery, and each residence focuses on one or more particular pathway. All MASH sober homes meet national standards based on the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) model. Boston Sober Homes is a M.A.S.H certified sober housing company for those who are serious about their recovery and sobriety. Our mission is to provide clean, comfortable accommodations in a positive environment for those looking to live a sober lifestyle.
A second would probably lead to a referral to outpatient treatment and a third to a residential treatment program with the bed held for the resident’s return. The bill requires the state Department of Health Care Services to establish certification of recovery homes and adopt standards. There is no organized opposition to Haney’s bill, which he’s amended to reconcile the two philosophical positions.
Evidence that management supports staff members maintaining self-care. Policies protecting resident and community privacy and confidentiality. Prior to the initial acceptance of any funds, the operator must inform applicants of all fees and charges for which they will be responsible. VSL Chartered Operators receive mock inspection templates, pre-inspection checklists, and coaching to ensure they’re fully prepared.
Verification that written resident’s rights and requirements (e.g. residence rules and grievance process) are posted or otherwise available in common areas. Policies and procedures that keep residents’ records secure, with access limited to authorized staff. Policy and procedures that ensure all residents are age eighteen or older at time of admission. VSL Chartered Operators gain access to a full library of proven templates, policies, forms, and supporting documents — resources that have helped our members successfully and easily obtain MASH certification. Learn more about becoming a VSL Chartered Operator. An electronic signature is required at the end of the application to certify your agreement to all standards and policies.
Engagement in informal activities is encouraged. 10.a Policies that value individuals chosen for leadership roles who are versed and trained in the Social Model of recovery and best practices of the profession. Prior to the initial acceptance of any funds, the operator must inform applicants of all fees and charges for which they will be, or could potentially be, responsible. This information needs to be in writing and signed by the applicant. Resident and staff orientations include how to greet and interact with neighbors and/or concerned parties. 19.a Verification that emergency numbers, procedures (including overdose and other emergency responses) and evacuation maps are posted in conspicuous locations.
» Steps to Certification
Use of an accounting system which documents all resident financial transactions such as fees, payments and deposits. Written permission from the property owner of record (if the owner is other than the sober home operator) to operate a sober home on the property. Documentation that the owner/operator has current liability coverage and other insurance appropriate to the level of support. If there are any changes to the sober home policies or sober home management, please notify MASH to update our files. An increase in beds will require an additional inspection to the sober home. After a successful inspection, MASH will send you a certification invoice.
E. Core Principle: Provide a Home-like Environment
Legislation in 2014 created voluntary certification of Massachusetts sober homes, and MASH began managing voluntary statewide sober home certification in 2016. For Golden, and hundreds of other small recovery programs, there is no direct path to obtain state money. The bill authorizes local agencies to fund recovery housing. That money is distributed through bidding and generally goes to large nonprofits such as PATH and the People Concern.
- Los Angeles Times senior writer Doug Smith scouts Los Angeles for the ragged edges where public policy meets real people, combining data analysis and gumshoe reporting to tell L.A.
- While our team offers hands-on support where needed, success ultimately depends on the operator’s initiative and commitment.
- Provide structured scheduled, curriculum-driven, and/or otherwise defined support services and life skills development.
- MASH was formed in 2007 when a group of sober home operators recognized the need for consistent standards and greater accountability within the sober housing community.
- Recovery residences — formerly known as halfway houses — are licensed residential treatment programs, while Massachusetts sober homes are peer-led and do not provide treatment.
- Sober homes applying for annual recertification must remit payment of certification fees during the recertification process and prior to scheduling the home inspection.
Our homes and their atmospheres are nurtured by the guests they provide for. Are you a state agency, licensed provider, individual, or family looking for a MASH-certified sober home? Search our directory to find a list of all MASH-certified sober homes. All MASH-certified sober homes follow the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) standards and have been independently inspected. Certification with MASH not only validates the quality of a sober home but also makes homes eligible for state-funded referrals and builds trust with residents and families.
Initially, MASH focused on creating a voluntary certification process that would ensure sober homes in Massachusetts provided safe, supportive, and structured environments for individuals in recovery. What is expected of residents of a sober home? Residents of sober homes are expected to abstain from alcohol and drug use, other than prescribed medications, and to refrain from prescription misuse. Payment terms for sober homes vary, and residents are given written house agreements. MASH-certified sober homes are governed by standards that address safety from an administrative, operational, property, and “good neighbor” perspective. Establishing a strong sober home community culture is critical to success in recovery.
Written permission from the property owner of record (if the owner is other than the recovery residence operator) to operate a recovery residence on the property. 27.e Documentation that resident and staff engage in community relations and interactions to promote kinship with other recovery communities and goodwill for recovery services. Staff and/or resident leaders educate residents about local community-based resources. Policy and procedures that address residents’ prescription and non-prescription medication usage and storage consistent with the residence’s level and with relevant state law.
Beacon of Light – South End Women’s Recovery House – Vanderburgh Sober Living
Reach out to VSL for help today. While our team offers hands-on support where needed, success ultimately depends on the operator’s initiative and commitment. MASH schedules several Sober House 101 Trainings each year. They tend to reach capacity shortly after they are announced, so we strongly recommend registering to attend this training as soon as possible to ensure that you are able to get a seat.
Massachusetts Association of Sober Homes
© 2025 💜 Vanderburgh Sober Living ™ is a cooperative network of independently operated sober living homes organized by The Vanderburgh Foundation, Inc., a registered 501(c)3 Charitable Foundation. The VSL and Vanderburgh House ™ brands are used with permission by VSL Chartered Operators. Evidence that staff and residents model genuineness, empathy, and positive regard. A weekly schedule details recovery support services, events and activities. Evidence that residents increase recovery capital through such things as recovery support and community service, work/employment, etc.
Core Principle: Create a culture of empowerment where residents engage in governance and leadership
27.b Residents find and sustain relationships with one or more recovery mentors or mutual aid sponsors. Documentation that residents are oriented to emergency procedures. Documentation that emergency contact information is collected from residents. Operator will attest that electrical, mechanical, and structural components of the property are functional and free of fire and safety hazards. Verification that kitchen and dining area(s) are large enough to accommodate all residents sharing meals together. Verification that laundry services are accessible to all residents.
Guests feel safe, comfortable and supported at all times.
- Join our sober living community or refer a client, family member, or friend.
- Verification that entertainment or recreational areas and/or furnishings promoting social engagement are provided.
- Policies protecting resident and community privacy and confidentiality.
Don’t see what you’re looking for or want to know more? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. Evidence that mechanisms mash certified sober homes exist for residents to inform and help guide operations and advocate for community-building. Policy regarding smoke‐free living environment and/or designated smoking area outside of the residence.
Beacon of Light – York Chester Men’s Recovery House – Vanderburgh Sober Living
You must attend the MASH Sober Housing 101 Training for Potential Operators before applying. This training provides an overview of operational standards, certification expectations, and regulatory requirements. While the two sides are working out their policy disagreements, practical implications for small-scale providers such as Golden remain up in the air.
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