Resident Acceptance Criteria

1. Basic Eligibility

Adult woman (19 years or older).
Seeking recovery from substance use or related life-controlling issues.
Willing to participate in a 43 Week, Christ-centered residential program and all core services (12 Steps & 12 Skills, classes, counselling, community life).

2. Health & Safety

Medically and mentally stable enough for a communal residential setting (no acute detox needs at intake; medically cleared if recently detoxed). *72 hours* Minimum.
Discloses any chronic medical conditions, current medications, and mental-health diagnoses so staff can plan appropriate care. "Must be on Medication for 3 months.*
If pregnant: provides prenatal care information and agrees to ongoing prenatal monitoring.

3. Legal & Risk Review

No outstanding warrants or unresolved violent charges that would prevent safe participation.
Discloses any restraining orders (in place or against others) so staff can assess risk and implement safety plans.
Willing to sign and follow the Grace House Resident Guidelines and Code of Conduct.

4. Commitment to Program Expectations

Agrees to a substance-free lifestyle (including alcohol, illicit drugs, and non-prescribed medications).
Willing to engage in all required programming: counselling, life-skills training, work therapy, and community responsibilities (chores, scheduled activities).
Willing to participate respectfully in Christian programming—devotions, chapel services, Bible studies—understanding that faith practices are central to the program but that conversion is never coerced.

5. Community & Behavioral Standards

Demonstrates willingness to live cooperatively in a 20-bed communal environment (shared chores, conflict-resolution processes).
Agrees to abide by stage-based privileges, passes, and accountability measures.
Open to creating and reviewing SMART Goals and Practice Behaviors during monthly evaluations.

6. Financial & Administrative Requirements

Completes the Grace House application and intake interview.
Provides identification and any required documentation (e.g., health card, legal papers).
Signs consent forms for data collection, privacy (PIPEDA-compliant), and release of information for coordinated care.

Intake staff will use a structured phone/onsite pre-screening questionnaire (already drafted) before scheduling a full intake.
Final acceptance is subject to Executive Director Approval through, the Case Manager and Program Director review, and may include a probationary Orientation Week to confirm fit and safety.