Program FAQs
What types of programs are offered?
A long term recovery program; (15-21 months) is provided for men and women 18 years of age and older who are willing to commit to a long term faith-based residential program. A six-month Restoration program is provided for graduates of recovery programs who relapse. Teen Challenge Bloom is a 3-5 month residential adolescent girls home that is launching January 1st, 2017.
Can I get my high school diploma or GED/HiSet while in program?
Students enrolled in the adult residential programs who do not have a high school diploma are given an opportunity to study and earn their GED/HiSet and must complete that diploma before they graduate from the program.
What are the program costs?
The costs of the adult residential programs are covered by generous donations, particularly of those who participate in our Dollar-A-Day Student Sponsorship Program, revenue raised through the job skills training program that trains students in good work habits and attitudes while developing skills, and gifts from family members who help underwrite the program costs for their loved ones. Through the generosity and support of our faithful friends and partners, no one is ever turned away because of their financial circumstances or inability to pay.
Can I work while I am in the program?
No, due to the nature and schedule of our program, residents are not able to seek outside employment or be employed through the duration of their treatment.
Is there a Teen Challenge closer to me outside the New England and New Jersey area?
For Teen Challenge programs in the United States that are outside New England and New Jersey, please visit Teen Challenge USA. For Teen Challenge locations outside the US, please visit the Global Teen Challenge site.
How do I apply to enter the program?
Download an application here or contact us at 1-855-404-HOPE to request an application by mail or fax or visit the Teen Challenge campus closest to you.
Can I enter the program if I have upcoming court dates?
Residents are allowed to enter the program with court dates pending. We do take into consideration the severity and nature of the crime to determine eligibility. Some applicants may not be appropriate for our program and will be denied admission. Residents admitted to the program with pending court dates may be asked to provide their own transportation to court.
Can I come to the program if I have pending criminal charges in another state?
If the courts with jurisdiction over the pending cases outside New England and New Jersey allow, Teen Challenge will enroll those who are facing charges in another state. The student will be asked to cover all travel costs incurred in meeting his/her legal obligations and appearances.
Can I enter the program if I am on probation in another state?
It is often very difficult for those who are on probation in a state outside of New England and New Jersey to obtain approval to enter programs in another state. In addition, oversight by an agency of one of our states might refuse to accept that responsibility. However, we are open to consider an applicant in this situation if approvals are arranged. The student will be asked to cover all travel costs incurred in meeting his/her legal obligations and appearances. We do take into consideration the severity and nature of the crime to determine eligibility.
Do you accept private medical insurance?
Teen Challenge does not accept private medical insurance payments to admit or support someone in our program.
What if a family member doesn’t want to come to Teen Challenge?
Every person and situation is unique. Speak the truth in love. Give them information about Teen Challenge and encourage them to call or visit one of our locations to talk with someone who has been where they are. Invite them to attend a choir presentation with you where they will hear inspirational true stories of God’s work in changing lives at Teen Challenge. Our prayer is that this contact and meeting others who were once where your loved one is, will flood their hearts with hope to seek help either from Teen Challenge or through another available resource.
Am I able to take psychotropic medication while I am in the program?
Teen Challenge is not a medical program and we are not trained to administer or monitor the well-being of a person who is receiving psychotropic medicines.
Do residents detox at Teen Challenge?
We encourage applicants to detox before they enter the residential program. The Admissions office at every location has a referral list of area clinics and sites where detoxing is provided.
Can I have money while I am enrolled as a student?
Students are not allowed to have any money in their personal possession while they are in the program. You may not receive any money directly from your family or anyone else. Any money or gift cards received for your use will be held for you to access as funds are needed.
What types of contacts can I have with family and friends?
Students may write and receive letters and make phone calls to/from their immediate family (parents, grandparents, husbands and wives) and from people on a list approved by their Pastoral Counselor. All mail (incoming and outgoing) may be checked. Incoming mail may be received immediately after program entrance. However, a student must be in the program for two weeks before sending outgoing mail. After being in the program for thirty days, two fifteen-minute phone calls a week are permitted.
What types of addictions/problems can be helped in the residential program?
The adult programs are primarily for those struggling with drug or alcohol addictions or any life controlling problem.