Harmony America House New York Review
Focused on providing a sober living environment and introducing recovering addicts back into the workforce, Harmony America House on Long Island is tailored specifically for men in recovery. Taking in clients from all walks of life, Harmony House in Bay Shore, New York prides itself on turning around even the most difficult cases. With a no-nonsense attitude and an emphasis on 12-step philosophies, residents are given the opportunity to change their lives and build a foundation for recovery.
Accommodations and Amenities
Three homes are available with a total of 36 beds among them. The houses are only a mile and a half apart to maintain unity and build a sober network for clients. Each location can accommodate 10 to 12 residents in its six bedrooms, based on double occupancy. Private rooms are available upon request. Each house has three bathrooms (towels provided) and clients are given space to store personal belongings in both their bedroom and the common areas.
The living rooms of each home offer comfortable seating with views of the surrounding neighborhoods—including the marinas in Bay Shore. Cable and a landline are provided as well. The kitchens are equipped with appliances, dishes and utensils for residents to prepare their own meals. A computer is available for common use but is reserved for job searches and emailing for employment inquiries. Local bus and train transportation are within walking distance from each of the houses, which makes it easy for residents to get to and from work and meetings.
Rules and Regulations
Harmony America has a zero-tolerance policy for drug and alcohol use, possessing paraphernalia, stealing, violence and abusive language. Random drug and breathalyzer tests are performed to enforce their sobriety requirement. The consequence for not abiding by the rules is immediate eviction and a forfeiture of rent. Understanding that relapse is sometimes a part of recovery, staff refers individuals to detox programs or inpatient facilities if needed. If a member who relapses completes the recommended treatment, they will be considered for readmission—but they must live in one of the other Harmony houses.
All house members are expected to commit themselves to a 12-step program through AA/NA. Residents primarily attend stag meetings and all locations host three meetings a week—including AA, NA and CA. Clients must attend 90 meetings in 90 days, secure a sponsor to guide them through the 12 steps, seek a home group and sign up for commitments. After three months has passed, residents are responsible for making their own meeting schedule and continuing their relationship with their sponsor.
Curfews are 10 pm for all houses on weeknights and at midnight on weekends. Some flexibility is allowed for residents who have jobs that may keep them late.
Finding employment is a requirement at Harmony House; the management believes that having a job builds self-esteem and helps residents find a sense of purpose. As opposed to doing job searches online, staff encourage residents to “hit the pavement” and apply for work in-person.
Extras
Harmony House believes in the 12-step way of life and that having fun should be a part of recovery. Bay Shore, Long Island is known for lush parks, open public spaces, beaches and many opportunities for outdoor activities. Sober softball leagues and community dinners at a local pizza restaurant is a popular weekly activities for residents. Playing paintball and taking classes, swimming or exercising at the local YMCA are also common past-times among the Harmony House fellowship.
In Summary
Some may call it tough love but Harmony House is dedicated to helping recovering addicts and alcoholics with their straightforward approach. Enforcing strict house rules and immersing clients into 12-step is their proven formula for success.
With so many residents living close together in their various houses, many long-term friendships are cultivated through the mutual support of the fellowship. Harmony House is an affordable and promising transitional living environment for men seeking a new beginning to a sober way of life.
Harmony America House New York Location
Harmony America House
Bay Shore, Long Island, NY 11706
Harmony America House Cost
$600 (30 days). Reach Harmony America House by phone at (631) 662-4440 or by email at harmony.halfway.homes@aol.com.
Do you have a complaint or review of Harmony America House to add? Use the comments area below to add your Harmony America House review.
Photo courtesy of BlockShopper
Sponsored DISCLAIMER: This is a paid advertisement for California Behavioral Health, LLC, a CA licensed substance abuse treatment provider and not a service provided by The Fix. Calls to this number are answered by CBH, free and without obligation to the consumer. No one who answers the call receives a fee based upon the consumer’s choice to enter treatment. For additional info on other treatment providers and options visit www.samhsa.gov.
