Worcester Public Inebriate Program

CONTACT:

701 Main St., PO Box 17078 Main St. Station
Worcester, MA 01601
508-757-0103
smoc.org/index.asp?pgid=12

Arthur Brousseau, Executive Director

DESCRIPTION:

This is a story of institutional evolution and adaptation to changing environments. PIP began in 1974 as a 25-bed emergency shelter for indigent alcoholics, funded by the National Institute of Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. It grew in that role – moving twice into larger facilities in 1977 and 1979. In the early ‘80s homelessness emerged as a major social issue in which substance abuse was complicated; funding sources broadened accordingly, and capacity grew to 100 beds, then added 10 more in a “stabilization dormitory.” Support services broadened as well to accommodate all dimensions of homelessness – food, shelter, clothing, health, job-readiness, etc. Several “sober environment” Houses, including one for recovering women, were created with phenomenal success – 91% of alumnae continue to maintain permanent housing, 76% maintain sobriety. PIP also runs a 30-acre working farm 20 miles outside Worcester. In April 2004, it merged with the South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC) to consolidate its efforts.

(2003: HUMAN SERVICES: Well-Being)