Friendly Hand Foundation DBA Friendly House

The Friendly Hand Foundation, known as Friendly House, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive recovery services to women in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1951, it was the first residential program specifically designed for women recovering from substance and alcohol abuse.

Mission

Friendly House focuses on empowering women of all gender experiences to overcome substance use disorders and mental health challenges. The organization offers a holistic approach, integrating clinical expertise, cultural wisdom, and community support within an inclusive environment. Its mission is to restore dignity and foster resilience by addressing the multifaceted nature of addiction, including trauma and mental health issues.

Programs and Services

Friendly House provides a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of women in recovery. These include:

• Detoxification Services: Sub-acute detoxification programs to support women through the process of abstaining from substances.
• Residential Treatment: Women are offered a structured environment with a phased approach that includes stabilization, addressing root causes of addiction, and community reintegration. Each phase typically lasts between one to two months and focuses on specific goals and activities[2].
• Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP): These programs offer group therapy and life skills classes grounded in trauma-informed care[4].
• Sober Living Houses: Alcohol and drug-free environments where residents can establish or maintain sobriety[4].

Specializations

Friendly House specializes in treating addiction alongside co-occurring mental health conditions and eating disorders. It provides evidence-based care, which includes scientifically rooted therapies and treatments that have proven results. The organization also incorporates 12-Step philosophies and offers family therapy to involve family members in the recovery process.

Cultural and Diversity Initiatives

Friendly House emphasizes diversity and inclusion, recognizing the importance of creating an inclusive space for all gender experiences. The organization conducts antiracist training and celebrates the intersectionality of its community members[4].

Historical Significance

As the first residential program for women recovering from substance and alcohol abuse, Friendly House has a rich history of advocating for women's recovery and addressing the gender-specific challenges in addiction treatment.

Governance

The Friendly Hand Foundation, operating as Friendly House, is governed by a board of directors that includes diverse professionals from various backgrounds[3].