In the forty-three years that have passed since its humble start, Tuerk House has helped over 24,000 clients suffering from a broad and complex array of substance abuse and co-morbid problems. Today over 70% of men and women who come to Tuerk House for help are opiate dependent and they may be addicted to cocaine, alcohol and other drugs as well. In 2014, almost 1,300 Marylanders received addictio
n treatment in one of its programs. The treatment population is characterized by being below the poverty line (95%), jobless (65%) and homeless (74%). Many of our clients are referred to us by the judicial system. In addition to their addiction, many patients also have significant secondary medical problems. Tuerk House counselors are skilled at supporting their patients in sustaining recovery behaviors and in accessing supportive services, as well as providing services to prepare them to re-enter society as healthy, productive individuals. Daily, addicted people with HIV and AIDS, records of multiple felonies, significant histories of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, chronic psychiatric issues, and other chronic medical issues come to Tuerk House for help. With its full range of treatment services under one organizational roof, Tuerk House welcomes people from desperate circumstances and successfully moves them from homelessness and helplessness to the beginnings of recovery and self-sufficiency.
