Vera's PlaceHope. Health. Home.
Resident rights & grievance procedure

Every resident has these rights. Here's how to use them.

Published in full, as our DDAP license requires and as we'd want anyway.

  • Dignity and respect

    To be treated with respect, dignity, and consideration at all times, in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, or abuse.

  • A safe, supportive home

    A safe, clean, recovery-focused residence, free from physical harm, threats, or intimidation.

  • Privacy and confidentiality

    Personal privacy within shared-living guidelines; personal and recovery-related information kept confidential except as required by law.

  • Participation in recovery

    To take an active part in your own recovery plan and to receive clear expectations about program participation.

  • Freedom from retaliation

    To file a grievance or complaint without fear of retaliation, punishment, or discrimination.

  • Access to information

    Clear information about house rules, policies and procedures, fees, and expectations.

  • Fair, consistent enforcement

    To be treated fairly and consistently in rule enforcement and any disciplinary action.

Grievance procedure

Talk first. Then write it down.

Informal: raise the concern with house staff or the house manager. Most things get resolved here.

Formal: if it isn't resolved, submit a written grievance to the designated staff member or program director describing the issue, the dates, anyone involved, and the resolution you want. You'll get an acknowledgment within 3 business days and a decision, with findings and any corrective action, within 10 business days.

Appeal: if you disagree with the decision, submit a written appeal; senior leadership of Vera's Place LLC reviews it and gives a final determination within a reasonable timeframe.

Outside reporting, any time: you may contact the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs directly, whether or not you use the internal process. Phone (717) 783-8200 · ddap.pa.gov. Local authorities and human-service oversight agencies are also options where they apply.

No resident will be penalized, discharged, or treated unfairly for filing a grievance in good faith. Retaliation is treated as a serious violation of house policy. All grievances and resolutions are documented and kept confidential.