HOME WOULD AID ADDICTS DURING RECOVERY

Finding affordable housing in Sudbury is tough, especially if you're
recovering from drug and alcohol addiction.

Rockhaven, a residential treatment program serving men older than 16
battling drug and alcohol addiction, is opening a transition house.

The home will provide short-term accommodations for graduates of the
treatment facility. Rent will be lower than market value and will help
pay for the mortgage of the home.

"The current rental market in Sudbury is tight," said Sandra Houzer,
administrative transition worker.

"When the guys leave here, they can't find a place. If they do, it's
either expensive or in areas where drugs and alcohol are abundant."

Living beside someone who parties or does drugs could put clients back
on the wrong path.

Renovations are underway at the transition home, located next door to
Rockhaven on Brady Street. The home was purchased in winter using
funds generated from charity bingo events in 2007.

Officials are raising money to complete renovations and purchase
furnishings for the home by holding a Father's Day Raffle. First prize
is a 14-foot aluminum Yamaha boat.

At the same time, Rockhaven is applying to the United Way and the
province for funding.

Local businesses like All Weather Windows, Valley Painting and
Construction, Remi Gosselin Flooring and Plumbing Warehouse among
others have donated materials.

The plan is to hire a staff member to run the home and provide
after-care services.