Oxford House - Liam

Oxford House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that pioneered the concept of self-run, self-supported recovery homes in 1975, providing community-based, supportive, and sober living environments for individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Founded when residents of a closing halfway house in Silver Spring, Maryland, took over the property to continue their recovery, Oxford House has grown to over 3,500 houses across 47 states, housing more than 24,000 individuals annually who support each other in maintaining long-term sobriety through a democratically governed model with no outside authority, house managers, or time limits on residency—as long as members remain drug- and alcohol-free, pay their equal share of expenses, and are not disruptive. The Oxford House Model emphasizes responsibility, replication, and evidence-based practices, as validated by extensive research from DePaul University and recognized by SAMHSA, showing residents achieve significantly lower relapse rates (around 80% sobriety after one year), reduced criminal involvement, and improved employment outcomes compared to usual care. Gender-specific houses accommodate at least six residents, fostering peer support, leadership development, and self-efficacy while integrating physical and behavioral health through shared responsibilities, weekly meetings, and a network of chapters, associations, and the World Council for ongoing technical assistance and expansion.