Immediate support
If you need help right now, these lines are open.
You can call or text without needing to explain everything first. If there is immediate danger, call 911.
Get Help
There are several ways to start.
You do not need to know exactly what to ask for. Call, visit during open hours, or explore trusted resources for yourself or someone you care about.
First steps
Choose the option that makes sense today.
A simple first step
Talk to Someone at 202
Call or email if you have questions or are not sure where to begin.
Contact usVisit Friendship House
Stop by during open hours to learn more about the House and the support available here.
Hours and directionsExplore Recovery Resources
Find trusted recovery, family, treatment, and community resources.
View resourcesWhat to expect when you visit
You can simply come in.
You do not need an appointment, and you do not need to provide your name or personal information. Friendship House respects anonymity.
Arriving at 202
Use any entrance. The coffee shop and bookshop are near the side entrance. You do not need to check in, but we always appreciate it when someone stops by the counter to say hello.
Parking
Parking is free. Park on the street or in Friendship House's parking area. Avoid neighboring parking lots because vehicles may be towed.
Before a meeting
Newcomers are encouraged to arrive about 10 minutes early. Meetings are free, donations are appreciated, and each meeting is self-supporting.
Finding your way
The building is wheelchair accessible. Ask staff at the counter or any member if you need help finding a meeting room. We are happy to point you in the right direction.
Families and community visitors are welcome.
Family members, friends, and community members are welcome at Friendship House. Nurses, physicians, counselors, therapists, teachers, lawyers, and others can learn more about AA and how it helps people recover from alcohol addiction. Ask staff which meeting or resource is the right place to begin.
For families
Support is available for families and loved ones too.
If someone you care about is in recovery or beginning recovery, Friendship House can help you learn what support is available.
You can ask questions and learn about ways to support someone without trying to manage their recovery.
Al-Anon offers support for people affected by someone else's drinking. Local Al-Anon resources can help you learn more and connect with others.
Helpful references
Want to learn more?
These links can help you learn more and locate treatment services. Friendship House respects the anonymity many people value when seeking recovery support.
View More ResourcesAA: Is AA for You?
AA's pamphlet uses simple questions to help people reflect on whether alcohol may be a problem.
Read the AA pamphletAA: A Newcomer Asks
A short introduction to common questions people have when they are new to Alcoholics Anonymous.
Read the AA pamphletResources at Friendship House
Explore local and national recovery, family, treatment, and community resources collected by 202.
View recovery resourcesSAMHSA National Helpline
Free treatment referral and information service for mental health and substance use concerns.
Visit SAMHSAFindTreatment.gov
A national treatment locator for substance use and mental health treatment programs.
Search treatment optionsNIAAA: Rethinking Drinking
Information from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism about alcohol use, risks, and change.
Visit Rethinking DrinkingAt 202