ANDY’S PLACE A Community of Optimism and Hope Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff
Hope. The feeling that what is wanted can be achieved, and that events will turn out for the best. For the 39 residents and 11 families of Andy’s Place in Jackson, hope and optimism are the cornerstones of each journey of recovery. Andy’s Place opened in 2021 and has been a model of care and recovery around the state. Residents are recommended through the Michigan Drug Court System and are referred to the supportive living community to continue their treatment and recovery from opioid addiction. As the first of several permanent supportive recovery housing projects planned in Michigan to address recovery holistically, Andy’s Place has proven that hope provides community, connections, and a sense of belonging.
The Community Action Agency of Jackson provides job training and employment services through collaboration with local business owners and manufacturers. “This circle of hope gives individuals the chance to live productive and full lives,” says Hirst. “I remind our residents that it doesn’t matter what you did last year, or even last month – what you are doing today and tomorrow to improve your life and live your potential will be your legacy.” The apartments are currently at capacity, but two more buildings will break ground this summer. One will support pregnant women in their recovery from addiction; the other will support those seeking recovery who are not part of Recovery Court.
Mike Hirst, the founder of Andy’s Angels Foundation, says that “You can’t succeed after incarceration, probation, and drug treatment by returning to an environment that triggered your addiction. Andy’s Place offers the structure that its members need to overcome the destructive odds of opiates.” The building was quiet during our tour in February. Kids were at school, and many residents were at work. We heard a dog bark since small pets are encouraged in the apartments. One resident offered us a cookie as she passed in the hallway that she made to share with the front office. The 50-unit campus offers onsite supportive services including case management, recreational and life skills programs, financial health and employment classes, sober and wellness activities, a garden, food and clothing pantry, and a fitness room. Local organizations who support recovery also have free satellite office space here. Residents can form their own support groups, host substance free events such as graduation and birthday parties, and holiday meals.
Andy’s Angels is a non-profit foundation formed to educate the community on opiate abuse and provide support for families and those suffering addiction. Our foundation raises funds to assist with the costs for treatment programs. Andy’s Angels honors Andy Hirst who passed away May 17, 2010 from a heroin overdose. https://andysangels.net/story/ Andy’s Place received the 2021 Charles L. Edson Tax Credit Excellence in the Special Needs Populations category, recognizing affordable housing and organizations that have demonstrated impactful use of the low-income housing tax credit. 51