Healing House History

Healing House History

Our Founding

In 2002, Ms. Bobbi Jo Reed purchased a home in the historic northeast area of Kansas City. Her goal was to provide transitional housing for women who had completed inpatient substance abuse treatment. As a former addict and alcoholic, Ms. Reed understood the many challenges faced my men and women in addiction recovery who are trying to transition back into society.

In 2003, Ms. Reed founded Healing House, Inc. based on the belief that a safe home environment is critical to life-long recovery. At the same time that Ms. Reed founded Healing House, there were approximately 900 women in Kansas City undergoing inpatient treatment, but only 24 safe residential beds available to them following treatment.

Our Impact

Since its founding, Healing House, Inc. has markedly expanded its scale and reach. Under Ms. Reed’s leadership, Healing House has purchased and refurbished numerous vacant homes – several of which were former drug houses – into safe, sober homes for both men and women. Healing House has also purchased four apartment buildings where families are restored and parents reunited with their children. (see facilities) A broad scope of programs is currently offered to help men and women with substance use disorder to live fulfilling, sober lives. (see programs)

More than 14,000 individuals in recovery have been served by Healing House.  Today, Healing House provides help and healing to nearly 1,000 men and women every year. Recovery housing is currently available for up to 220 adults and 25 children in the same Kansas City neighborhood. This area – once riddled with drug dealing, prostitution, and gang violence – is rapidly being transformed into a safe and protective neighborhood through the collaboration of Healing House, numerous volunteers, and like-minded residents.

Watch BOBBI JO: Under the Influence, the new documentary about Healing House founder and CEO, Bobbi Jo Reed. (streaming free on Tubi.tv)