First Step House is more than a housing provider. We are a nonprofit healthcare organization specializing in people with the most complex needs — those living with both addiction and mental illness. For decades, these men and women have been left behind, cycling through ERs, shelters, and jails without ever receiving effective care.
At First Step House, they finally heal.
We don’t separate treatment and housing. Every unit of housing we provide is paired with behavioral health care, medical support, and case management.
People move step by step — from treatment, into sober housing, and for most, into independence. Permanent supportive housing is reserved only for those who cannot sustain housing without ongoing care.
We address physical, mental, and social well-being together: healthcare, housing, employment, and recovery support under one roof.
94% of housing residents remain stably housed, 87% of Recovery Residence graduates secure permanent housing, and recidivism rates drop dramatically for people in our reentry program.
This is what makes First Step House different: housing that heals, treatment that lasts, and recovery that builds a stronger community for all of us.
First Step House opened its doors in 1958 as a small recovery home in downtown Salt Lake City. In those early days, the mission was simple: give people a safe place to begin again.
Over the decades, the needs of our community grew – and so did we. What started as one program has expanded into a multi-campus, multi-service organization that provides treatment, housing, veteran services, and reentry support for thousands of people every year. Along the way, we’ve built a reputation for innovation, compassion, and results.
Through all that growth, one thing hasn’t changed: our belief that recovery is possible for everyone. Whether someone has lived on the streets for years, cycled in and out of jail, or struggled through repeated relapses, we meet them with compassion and support. This story continues because of the community members, partners, and donors who make our work possible.
James
Treatment & Recovery
Housing Graduate
When James arrived at First Step House, he was homeless and at rock bottom after years of addiction. In a safe and structured environment, he began to heal from trauma, rebuild relationships, and develop the tools to sustain long-term recovery. After 30 months sober, he reached out to share this update:
“I gained the tools to love myself, understand addiction, and rebuild my life. Every day isn’t perfect, but I’m still sober and living in recovery.”