ROCHESTER, MN - It's a housing concept that's causing a stir, but one that could save thousands of dollars for a local county. And it's gaining in popularity.
There's one in St. Cloud, one in Duluth and several in the Twin Cities. They've been called "wet houses" or homes for chronic inebriates, where they're still allowed to drink. And there will soon be one in Southern Minnesota.
It's a controversial concept. 40 people with a history of substance abuse and homelessness will soon call Silver Creek Corner their home.
But it isn't a treatment center. It's a permanent, supportive home for homeless chronic alcoholics. And residents are allowed to drink in their rooms.
"I didn't think it was a good idea to allow people to continue to drink," said Ray Dunfee.
Dunfee is a social worker with Olmsted County and has over 25 years of experience dealing with folks with chemical dependency issues. He was initially skeptical about the idea. Then, a visit to a similar home in Duluth changed his mind.
"I saw the way the residents were treated up there, I saw the quality of life they were now able to maintain," Dunfee said.
Dunfee said it's the next best thing for folks who cannot stay sober. It gets them off the streets and keeps them out of jail cells and detox centers. And it's a huge money saving move for the county.
"It's at least a thousand dollars per resident per month that we save," Dunfee said.
But finances aren't the only motivation behind the concept.
"Do we feel better as a society letting these people die under a bridge, or do we give them a home," said Paul Fleissner.
As Director of Community Services for Olmsted County, Fleissner said it comes down to doing the right thing.
"It's our responsibility to give folks hope, humanity and a home if they can't provide one," Fleissner said.
And just because residents are allowed to drink, doesn't mean it's encouraged.
"We are trying to get them to reduce use, we are trying to get them to choose less harmful substances, and their quality of life improves," said Dunfee.
Residents are only allowed to drink in their private room, not in any of the common areas.
Everyday there will also be a sober activity offered as an effort to curbalcohol abuse. They will also offer a variety of substance abuse treatment programs.
The home has 40 private rooms and a kitchen where meals are provided. There's a secure entrance that is staffed 24 hours a day and residents are not allowed to bring guests inside.
They hope to start moving the first residents in throughout the coming weeks.
The money for this home comes from a state initiative to end homelessness in Minnesota.
