Project 614: Building Community and Recovery in Columbus
Our goal is to have guys who can pay off this mortgage in 5 years or less. During those years, we operate like a landlord. So if something breaks, like the furnace needs repaired, we fix it, a tree falls on the roof, we fix the roof, somebody moves out, we paint the walls. So it's a fresh, clean house.
Imagine a place where recovery isn't just a personal journey but a community effort. That's the heart of Project 614, a transformative initiative on the west side of Columbus, Ohio. In this episode of 'Relational Recovery', hosts Wes Thompson and Austin Hill dive into the nuts and bolts of Project 614, a program born from the experiences of alumni from The Refuge Ministry.
They found that many individuals, after leaving The Refuge, struggled to maintain sobriety and build healthy relationships without ongoing support. Project 614 steps in to fill that gap by offering affordable housing and a supportive community for men in recovery. The concept is simple yet powerful. The Refuge Ministry buys duplexes in the Hilltop and Franklinton neighborhoods, renovates them, and rents them out at a rate of $400 to $450 per month, utilities included.
No deposit is required, making it accessible for those in need. The application process involves personal references and a financial interview, ensuring that each resident is ready for this next step in their recovery journey. But Project 614 offers more than just a roof over one's head. It's about creating a community where men can live together, support each other, and grow in their faith.
With random drug tests and house meetings, there's a structure that promotes accountability and mutual encouragement. One resident described it as having roommates who are all striving for the same goal: to get better and deepen their faith. A standout feature of Project 614 is the path to homeownership it offers. After a year in the program, residents can apply to buy their home through a rent-to-own scheme.
This means they can work towards owning their property within five years, with Project 614 handling maintenance and repairs during that period. Once the mortgage is paid off, the resident becomes the homeowner and can either continue renting it out to others in recovery or sell it back to The Refuge Ministry. The impact of Project 614 extends beyond individual recovery stories. By investing in local neighborhoods, the initiative helps revitalize communities.
As more men become homeowners and take pride in their properties, they inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positive change. This episode sheds light on how Project 614 isn't just about affordable housing; it's about building a supportive community that fosters long-term recovery and neighborhood renewal. If you're curious about how community support can transform lives, this episode is a must-listen.