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Preparing for Move-In

Welcome to DB House! We want your transition to be as smooth as possible. This guide will help you pack appropriately and arrive prepared for your new chapter in recovery.

Everything You Need to Bring for a Confident, Comfortable Start at DB House

Preparing for sober living shouldn’t feel overwhelming. This detailed checklist helps you pack with clarity so you can focus fully on your recovery, settle in smoothly, and feel at home from the moment you arrive.

Clothing:

  • 7-10 days worth of clothing
  • Appropriate work attire (if employed)
  • Casual comfortable clothes
  • Sleepwear
  • Underwear and socks (2-week supply)
  • Jacket/outerwear for current season
  • Comfortable shoes and work shoes

Bathroom Essentials:

  • Towels (2-3 bath towels)
  • Washcloths (4-6)
  • Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
  • Deodorant
  • Razor and shaving supplies
  • Any personal hygiene products needed

Laundry Supplies:

  • Laundry detergent
  • Fabric softener (optional)
  • Laundry basket or bag

Personal Items:

  • Valid photo ID
  • Insurance cards (if applicable)
  • Any required medications in original prescription bottles
  • Phone and charger
  • Alarm clock
  • Personal electronics (laptop, tablet, etc.)
  • Headphones/earbuds

Recovery Materials:

  • 12-step literature (if you have it)
  • Journal or notebook
  • Writing supplies
  • Meeting directory (we'll provide one if needed)

Important Documents:

  • Social Security card
  • Birth certificate (if available)
  • Banking information
  • Insurance information
  • Emergency contact information

Optional Items (If Desired)

  • Television for bedroom (please coordinate with roommate)
  • Small fan (personal use)
  • Bedside lamp
  • Pictures or personal decorations (modest, recovery-friendly)
  • Books or magazines
  • Exercise clothes and equipment
  • Bicycle (if you have secure storage)

What NOT to Bring

To protect the safety, serenity, and recovery of all residents, the following items are strictly prohibited at DB House.

Prohibited Items:

  • Alcohol in any form (including mouthwash with alcohol)
  • Illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia
  • Weapons of any kind
  • Valuable jewelry or large amounts of cash
  • Candles or incense
  • Hot plates or cooking appliances for bedroom
  • Space heaters
  • Aerosol sprays or air fresheners with alcohol content
  • Pornographic materials
  • Anything that could trigger others in recovery

Medication Policy:

  • All prescribed medications must be in original prescription bottles
  • Controlled substances will be monitored by house management
  • Over-the-counter medications should be disclosed
  • Any abuse of prescribed medication results in immediate eviction

Move-In Day Tips

Before You Arrive:

  • Call ahead to confirm your move-in time
  • Arrange transportation – consider having a sober family member or friend help
  • Pack light – you can always get more items later
  • Bring your move-in payment ($750 – cash, money order, or approved payment method)

When You Arrive:

  • Meet with the house manager for orientation
  • Tour the facility and your bedroom
  • Meet your roommate(s) and other residents
  • Review house rules and sign agreement
  • Receive your welcome packet with meeting schedules and local resources
  • Get the door access code and house keys

Important Reminders

Food & Groceries: Residents are responsible for their own food. We recommend:

Before You Arrive:

  • Planning to grocery shop shortly after arrival
  • Labeling all food items with your name and date
  • Being respectful of shared refrigerator and pantry space
  • Cleaning up immediately after cooking or eating

Storage Space:

  • Bedroom closet and dresser space (shared with roommate)
  • Under-bed storage available
  • Limited storage for additional items – pack accordingly
  • DB House is not responsible for lost or stolen items

Bed Linens: We provide all bed linens, pillows, and blankets. You don’t need to bring these unless you prefer your own.

Local Shopping Resources

Ask your house manager for specific locations nearest to your house.

Near Our Houses:

  • Walmart – Multiple locations for affordable essentials
  • Target – Household items and personal care
  • ShopRite, Stop & Shop – Groceries
  • Dollar Stores – Budget-friendly basics
  • CVS/Walgreens – Pharmacy and personal care

Still Have Questions?

We’re here to help! If you’re unsure about whether to bring something or need clarification on any items, please contact us before move-in day.

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