What kind of organization is Prodigals Community? It is a homeless shelter?

Prodigals Community is a long-term residential substance abuse recovery program with an emphasis on spiritual growth. The program is rigorous and requires residents to spend 78 hours per week in structured activities. It is not a shelter nor is it an alternative to incarceration.

What is the length of the program?

The program lasts a minimum of fifteen months.

How much does the program cost? Do I have to have insurance?

Fees are based on a sliding scale. Residents help meet costs by working 40 hours per week in our businesses (such as janitorial, painting, office work). Donations from churches, businesses, and individuals provide the balance of the program cost.

Is it a religious program?

Prodigals Community is based on the model of Christian community. Each resident is encouraged to develop spiritual disciplines and to grow uniquely with the God of their understanding. Worship, Bible study, and other religious programs are available but are not required.

Where is Prodigals Community located?

We are located at 1024 Waughtown Street in southside Winston-Salem in the renovated facilities of the former Southminster Presbyterian Church.

I already have a job. Do I have to quit my job? Are the residents able to have outside work while in the program?

Residents are required to work 40 hours per week for Prodigals Property Services—our job training businesses. Residents are not able to work outside the program until they reach the senior stage of the program.

Do you accept people on disability?

All residents must be physically and emotionally stable. Applicants who receive disability payments, yet meet all criteria for admission except that they are unable to work full-time in our job-training businesses will pay fees based on the amount of their disability income. Please call for more information.

How long does it take to get in? Is there a waiting list?

This depends on whether we have space available. We do have a waiting list, but it is advised that if you have completed and returned the application and remain interested in coming to Prodigals you should call periodically to check on the status of your application.

Do you have an opening?

This status could change at anytime. It is difficult to predict whether a resident will remain the entire 15 months or decide to leave. It is best to call regularly for space availability.

Does the medication I’m taking affect me getting into the program?

Not necessarily. We ask that residents do not take any narcotic medications. We also screen for medications that may be prescribed for psychotic stability. Another concern would be if the medication that you are taking is not available through our sources for residents to receive discount or free medication. We cannot afford to pay for medication for residents. When you enter the program, you need to have at least a 30 supply of your current medications (and refills available to last until your next appointment) or a written prescription from your doctor.

Do I have to write down all my charges on the application form?

Honesty is a core value at Prodigals Community. Be as complete as you can about your charges. If you have numerous charges and cannot remember them all it may be advised that you obtain a copy of your criminal record. Upon admission we will do an extensive background check on each client.

When is the earliest I can go on a pass?

Residents may go on 4 two-hour passes during their sophomore stage. During the freshman stage (60 days) residents may have in-house visitors and are eligible to attend outside worship services with staff. During the orientation stage (60 days) residents may have no visitors.

Where will I live?

All residents live on the New Salem campus of Prodigals Community.

Can I have my car?

No. Residents may have a car only upon reaching the senior stage of the program.

Does a person need to go through detox before entering Prodigals?

It is required that a resident entering the program be at least four days clean. If you have been using any substance that may cause withdrawal you may need to go into a detox center to get through the withdrawal symptoms before entering our program.

What personal belongings should I bring?

Upon entering the program you will only need clothes and personal toiletries. Most other items such as linens and towels are provided for you; however, it is ok to bring your own linens and towels if you wish to do so. There are restrictions for radios, jewelry, perfume, cologne, make-up, stuffed animals, money, etc. You will not need to bring any of these types of items. As you go through the program you will be given privileges to have these items and at that time family members may bring them to you. 

May residents see their family while here? How often can they visit?

Family members are allowed to visit once a resident has completed the Freshman level (a minimum of 60 days.) Family members over the age of 16 must go through a visitor orientation before visiting their loved one. Visitation is held every Sunday from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Visitor orientations are held on the first Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. and on the first and third Sundays at 12:30 p.m. prior to the afternoon visitation time. Family members should call the receptionist to schedule an orientation.

Do you allow smoking?

Yes, residents are allowed to smoke in designated areas.

I hear the program is very strict, can you explain what that means?

Residents spend 78 hours each week in structured activities, including education classes, vocational training, support group sessions, substance abuse recovery and structured spiritual development. The increased personal responsibility that comes from structured spiritual growth and vocational training sets Prodigals Community apart from other substance abuse recovery programs. Residents hold each other accountable for their actions.

What type of accreditation do you have?

We have no affiliation with national, regional or state groups. We are a unique program built on the models of therapeutic communities, Twelve Step programs, and Christian community. Staff are chosen for their Christian commitment--including, in some cases, their own recovery journeys. We have two substance abuse counselors on staff and a well-trained staff with a sincere desire to help others.

What do I need to do to get my loved one admitted there?

The first step of the process is to have them fill out and return an application. Please allow 24-48 hours for review. It is best for the applicant then to call to check the status of their application. Applicants to Prodigals Community must be committed to their own personal recovery.

My (friend, loved one) just needs a place to stay, can you help them?

We would be happy to provide you with information about places which may be more appropriate for them. Again, applicants to Prodigals Community must be committed to their own personal recovery.

(return to top)