Christian-Based Sober Living Home in Colorado Springs Helps Women in Recovery

A Colorado Springs sober living home assists women in addiction recovery.

Founded in 2014 by Marilyn Vyzourek, Gospel Homes for Women can house up to 16 women at a time for up to six months, many of which are dealing with substance abuse disorders. Many have benefited from the program’s holistic approach.

“I felt called to Christian ministry and I felt called to this population,” Vyzourek said.

Gospel Homes helps women transition back into society.

They offer Bible study groups, mentoring, and opportunities to attend church services and Narcotics or Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

Since 1999, Colorado has seen a rise in the amount of heroin and opioid overdoses.

According to preliminary 2017 data from the Colorado Department of Health & Environment, more than 500 deaths resulted from opioid or heroin overdoses combined. Organizations like the Colorado Consortium for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention have implemented programs to administer naloxone, assist people in addiction recovery, and facilitate communication between law and government officials, drug detox centers and sober living communities.

Vyzourek has helped approximately 2,000 men and women with substance use disorders. The American Red Cross of Southeastern Colorado honored her in March with a Hometown Hero community service award.

“It’s given this women’s ministry more exposure,” she said. “People are knowing what we’re doing and it gives validity to what we’re doing. I’ve ministered in Colorado Springs for 23 years and I feel like I’m finally getting recognized. It’s a very selfless effort.”

Gospel Homes plans to introduce educational courses on financial management, cooking, relapse prevention and more.