This funding opportunity is intended to stimulate the development of newly staffed Level II or Level III Recovery Residences, as defined by the National Association of Recovery Residences (NARR). Detail of the levels of care are available on the NARR website. In Washington State, the Washington Alliance for Quality Recovery Residences (WAQRR) provides technical assistance to operators. WAQRR also provides credentialing of Recovery Residences. WAQRR certification is required of every Recovery Residence Operator launching a new Level II Recovery Residence funded under this opportunity.

Eligible Applicants

Eligible applicants may apply for funding to create and implement new Level II or Level III Recovery Residences. Two applicant options are available:

• Applicant Option 1: Existing Level II Recovery Residences that are accredited with WAQRR and have paid staff on-site, or Level III Recovery Residences that are licensed by the Department of Health (DOH) and have paid staff on-site, that wish to establish new Level II or Level III Recovery Residences, as defined by NARR; or

• Applicant Option 2: Non-profit behavioral health providers or housing providers that wish to establish new Level II or Level III Recovery Residences, as defined by NARR.

Awarded entities must submit to Commerce proof of WAQRR accreditation or licensure by DOH. At the sole discretion of Commerce, entities whose projects do not obtain WAQRR accreditation or DOH licensure, as appropriate, may face contract termination and repayment of funds to Commerce.

Funding Availability

Funding for each biennium is contingent upon appropriations by the state Legislature. When funds are appropriated, Commerce will award up to $75,000 to a qualifying applicant for startup costs associated with the first year of operation. Beginning in State Fiscal Year 2024 (July 1, 2023—June 30, 2024), Commerce will award previously funded applicants a second-year award, up to $35,000. Applicants will not be eligible for additional funding under this opportunity beyond the first two years of operation of a new Recovery Residence.

Use of Funds

If awarded, the allowable uses of funds include:

• Rent or mortgage payments on the Recovery Residence
• Personnel costs (salaries and benefits) associated with the implementation or operation of the Recovery Residence
• Utilities and utility deposits
• In-state travel for residents or staff
• Food for residents
• Equipment (excludes capital improvements)
• Liability insurance
• Maintenance, including landscaping
• Other costs, as approved by Commerce
• No capital expenses are allowable under this funding opportunity. Costs relating to acquisition, rehabilitation, construction, or any capital improvements are prohibited under this opportunity.