Started in the Washington, DC. area in 1975, Oxford House is a concept and system of self-run, self-supported group housing for recovering alcoholics and drug addicts. The first house for thirteen men opened a second house within six months. At present, there are over 2300 Oxford Houses for both men and women in 45 states. As a result of PL.100-690, the Anti-Drug Act of 1988, the cost effective, self-run, self-supported recovery house is being replicated throughout the nation.

PL.100-690 required states to establish a revolving fund to make loans to cover the security deposit and first month’s rent for groups of recovering individuals who wish to start a recovery home. Oxford House provides each new group an Oxford House Charter and provides the new group with the Know-how and support to establish and operate a successful house.