Who We Help
Substance Use Disorder
Substance use disorder is the medical term used to describe a pattern of using a substance (drug) that causes significant problems or distress. This may be missing work or school, using the substance in dangerous situations, such as driving a car. It may lead to substance-related legal problems or continued substance use that interferes with friendships, family relationships, or both. Substance use disorder, as a recognized medical brain disorder, refers to the use of illegal substances, such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine. Or the misuse of legal substances, such as alcohol, nicotine, or prescription medicines. Alcohol is the most common legal drug associated with substance use disorder. (Johns Hopkins’ definition)
Substance Use Disorder is extremely serious and has a tremendous impact in the Charleston Tri-County Area.
There Is Hope
Treatment plays a pivotal role in saving the lives of individuals grappling with Substance Use Disorder (SUD).
By providing a structured and comprehensive approach, treatment programs address not only the physiological aspects of addiction but also the underlying psychological and social factors contributing to the disorder.
Treatment offers a lifeline by equipping individuals with the tools to overcome cravings, manage triggers, and establish a foundation for sustained recovery.
Long Lasting Recovery
Step 1 Recovery requires those we help to commit to attending a treatment facility that uses a 12-step program for a minimum of 6 months. Long-term treatment can be especially beneficial for people with substance use disorders. While studies show that spending at least 90 days in treatment can lead to better chances of staying sober, living in a treatment facility for at least 6 months will further increase the likelihood of long-term sobriety.
Residing in a long-term treatment facility allows someone to practice important coping skills and become comfortable with using them once they leave. Treatment can also help someone become more productive in all areas of their life. As they reside in the same facility and attend the same group meetings, they will also forge connections with others in the program. These relationships can be helpful when working through difficult issues, especially when people are in similar stages of recovery.
Societal Benefits - Public Savings and Contributions
Healthcare Savings
Chronically homeless individuals with substance use disorders average $35,000–$50,000 per year in public healthcare costs through ER visits and hospitalizations. (National Alliance to End Homelessness, 2019)
Reduced Shelter and Social Services Use
Emergency shelter costs municipalities $8,000–$12,000 annually per person — costs that are eliminated when someone successfully transitions to independent living.
Increased Tax Contributions
An employed person in recovery earning ~$30,000 annually contributes $4,000–$5,000 in taxes each year. (IRS & SC Dept. of Revenue, 2024)
Criminal Justice Savings
Incarceration in South Carolina averages $25,000 per inmate annually, and long-term treatment reduces justice system involvement by 50% or more. (Vera Institute, 2015; RAND Corporation, 2014)
Total Net Societal Impact: A single Step 1 scholarship can generate $45,000–$75,000+ in annual public savings and contributions, supported by recent program data from across the U.S. and contextualized within Charleston’s own investments.