The health and safety of our residents and staff is a top priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. To learn how we are responding to the crisis and how you can help support the women we serve, click here.
Formerly St. Martin de Porres House of Hope - A Supportive Community for Women in Recovery Since 1983
Earlier this week, Southside Center of Hope held its 4th program graduation ceremony to honor 20 women who’ve completed the program. This year, the ceremony was held virtually on Facebook Live. “I can think of no better way to highlight the importance of National Recovery Month than to celebrate the achievements of women who are in […]
All of the extra pressure, uncertainty, and free-time that has become part of the COVID-19 pandemic has unfortunately made maintaining recovery more difficult for many women. It seems like social distancing will be a part of our lives for a while, so it is important to have ways to relax and improve your mood. Here […]
When residents prepare to complete phase three of our program and leave Southside Center of Hope they are asked to write a short essay sharing their experience and why they feel they are ready to leave. One of our former residents, Cora, graduated the program with over a year of clean time and wanted to […]
Divorce. It’s not something you ever intend to hear, think, or experience. However, here you are, thinking it will never happen to you but it has. You took your vows seriously and you were the best spouse you could be. You sacrificed, compromised, and loved the thought of doing life with someone. Unfortunately, I found myself having to make one […]
It was Mother’s Day of 1992 when Sherry decided she was ready for recovery. At this point, she had been struggling with her addiction for several years and it had taken hold of her. “I would pray for help even though I was still using at the time. Each time I picked up my drug […]
On June 30, 2020, We celebrated Sister Carlotta’s retirement from Southside Center of Hope. Over the last 13 years, Sister Carlotta has impacted dozens of women and helped them on their recovery journey by providing counseling and facilitating anger management and life skills groups. As a Sister of Mercy and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Sister Carlotta said that during her time at Southside Center of Hope […]
Mothers suffering from addiction may have a difficult time having a healthy relationship with their children. Why? Once in recovery, moms who are committed to repairing relationships with their children should keep five key things in mind. Children need to recover, and mothers need to lead that process Addiction is a deeply personal experience, and […]
If you are in a recovery program, you know how close addiction can be tied to mental health. You may even have realized that unresolved mental health issues are at the root of your own battle with substance abuse. What you may not realize just yet, however, is just how important self-care can be for […]
Since the Illinois Governor first enacted the stay-at-home order in mid-march our residents have shown strength, perseverance, and adaptability in adjusting to their new normal. One of our residents, Anna, was gearing up to start a workforce training program when we were all forced to shelter in place. Unsure about what would happen next, Anna stayed positive and waited to […]
The road to recovery is a challenging one, but you might be surprised at the difference taking care of your body can make. Including a fitness regimen and eating a healthy diet can ease some of the bumpiness of your journey, and give you positive, lifelong coping skills. Read on for some ideas to help […]