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In talking about the foster care system, few people recognize the role played by the Oxford House system in keeping children out of foster care.  The Recovery Association Project which partners with the Oxford House system to provide recovery housing to 1135 addicts statewide and over 200 children in 167 group houses.  Houses are gender specific, are self-sufficient and democratically run.  Usually there are 8 adults in a house.  There are children in both men’s and women’s houses.  Most of these children are DHS involved and would be in foster care if their parents weren’t in an Oxford house.  DHS will reunite a parent on the basis that they are in an Oxford House.  Many of the parents are coming out of the criminal justice system.  This provides a safe Alcohol and Drug Free environment.  Parenting classes are provided.  The existence of 7 “aunts” or “uncles,” many with children, provides security for children.  One case manager told me that she breathes a huge sigh of relief when a child goes into an Oxford House.

posted 3 years, 1 month ago
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