Oxford House Merrifield

About the model

How an Oxford House works

This house is one of roughly 3,500 chartered Oxford Houses in the United States. They all follow the same model, so what is true of Oxford House in general is true here.

Self-run, no staff

There is no house manager, counselor, or paid employee. The residents rent the house together, hold weekly business meetings, and elect officers (president, treasurer, secretary, comptroller) for six-month terms.

Democratic decisions

House rules, admissions, and expulsions are decided by a vote of the current residents. Most houses require an 80% majority to accept a new member.

Equal share of expenses

Rent, utilities, and household supplies are split equally among residents and paid weekly. Costs vary by house and city; there is no fee to Oxford House, Inc.

Stay sober or leave

Anyone who drinks or uses drugs is asked to leave immediately. Beyond that there is no time limit: residents may stay as long as they pay their share and follow house rules.

Apply by interview

Applicants fill out an application, then interview with the residents, usually at a set weekly time. A room must be available and the house must vote to accept you.

Chartered, not licensed

Each house holds a charter from Oxford House, Inc., a nonprofit founded in 1975. The charter can be revoked if the house stops following the three charter conditions: democratic self-governance, financial self-support, and immediate expulsion for relapse.

Interview times change often. Call the listed contact to confirm before you go. See every Oxford House listed.