FAQ / intake

How old do I have to be to apply?

We can accept applications from anyone 19 years or older.
 

What does the program cost?

It costs $108 per day to keep a resident in our program. We ask our applicants along with their support systems to come as close to this amount without it being a financial hardship. We don’t turn anyone away due to lack of funding, we can help present several options and work with applicants all the way down to the social assistance or welfare level here in NS. This area will be addressed once an application is submitted in full.
 

Can I smoke in the program?

The Helm is a completely addictive substance-free program. This encompasses your entire year, not just when you’re here on site. This means that we don’t allow cigarettes, e-vapes, pipes, cigars, or any smoking cessation.
 

Can I take medications while in the program?

We do allow prescribed medications while you are in the program as long as they’re not addictive. Because The Helm is not a medical facility, it is our policy to disallow anything that could cause harm to oneself or to others if it were to be abused. As such we don’t allow addictive medications even if prescribed by a doctor. These include, but are not limited to, narcotics, benzodiazepines, methadone, and suboxone.
 

Can I see the doctor while I’m in the program?

All health care visits, including doctors, dentists, and optometrists, can be scheduled through the office by submitting permission slips. These appointments will be scheduled outside of program time, and will be at the discretion of leadership.
 

Will the doctor renew my prescription if I’m from out of town?

We recommend that if at all possible you bring a copy of your medical records with you when you come. This will allow the doctors at the local clinic to continue your care without interruption. You’ll also need to bring your health care card with you if you have it.
 

Can I visit family?

Positive family time is such an important part of the rehabilitation process. During your first month you are not allowed time offsite, but your family is welcome to come and spend time with you when you have time off from scheduled program. After your first month, you can request time offsite outside of program time. All of this is done by submitting permission slips and getting approval from leadership.
 

Can I bring my cellphone?

Electronics are not allowed for residents unless they are attending schooling and have permission from leadership. Residents can apply to have their cell phone back after 3 months and must agree to the terms of the cell phone agreement.
 

Will I have access to the phone?

Yes, you will have access to our phone and computer room. We have times during the day which are designated for making calls or using the internet and ask that our residents keep these times to 15 minutes or less. We’ll assist you to set up extra time as needed for calls to the government, your doctor or lawyer and during the weekends there is also an opportunity to use the room.
 

I’m on bail, probation, or parole – can I come to The Helm?

We can accept applicants even if they have dealt with legal issues in the past. We request that you send us a copy of your conditions so that we can best determine if your situation will mesh well with our program. We do withhold the right to ask anyone to leave, regardless of their conditions, if they are unable to adhere to our rules and guidelines.
 

What should I bring with me?

You should bring things that will make you feel comfortable. You’ll need about one week’s worth of clothes if you are able, and work clothes as well for work program. You’ll also want to bring your personal hygiene items, your bible, and any required medications. Smaller musical instruments such as guitars are allowed, but we ask that you don’t bring drum sets or anything too large. You won’t have a large amount of space, so we ask that you keep that in mind while packing and refrain from bringing furniture, animals, or boxes of books.
Residents are allowed to use headphones ONLY in their room.
 

Can I bring my vehicle?

We are unable to accommodate the storage of vehicles on site, so we’d ask that you find somewhere else to store them while you’re in your program here.
 

What things are banned?

• Drugs and drug paraphernalia
• Alcohol
• Cigarettes/Pipes/Cigars/E-cigs/Vaporizers/Lighters
• Weapons
• Weapons of any kind
• Porn
• Animals

INTAKE ACKNOWLEDGMENT

In order to maintain the highest degree of safety and respect for our residents, guests,
staff and volunteers, we have clearly defined rules and guidelines. Potential clients must understand that violating any of the following guidelines may result in immediate discharge and prevention from future enrolment in the program. We reserve the right to refuse admission to the program if potential clients can not or refuse to adhere to the set rules and guidelines.

-The use/and or possession of cigarettes, pornography,weapons and drugs including alcohol is strictly prohibited.
-Threats or acts of violence against fellow residents and or Helm guests, volunteers and staff are strictly prohibited.
-Residents must be medically able to participate in the program both physically and mentally. The nature of our program requires that residents be emotionally able to participate in counselling sessions, group sharing, worship and be committed to making healthy life changes.