The Helm Foundation

Recovery takes strength. Rebuilding takes support.

We help remove financial barriers to housing, treatment, transportation, and employment readiness — giving people in recovery the support they need to rebuild with stability, dignity, and purpose.

About
Why Support Matters

The barriers are real.

For adults who recognized an unmet need for substance use treatment, getting help was often complicated by cost, stigma, access, insurance, and everyday logistics.

Cost
45.3%

thought substance use treatment would cost too much.

SAMHSA · 2024 NSDUH · Table A.56B
Stigma
43.2%

worried about what people would think or say if they received treatment.

SAMHSA · 2024 NSDUH · Table A.56B
Time
41.3%

said they did not have enough time for treatment.

SAMHSA · 2024 NSDUH · Table A.56B
Navigation
38.9%

did not know how or where to get substance use treatment.

SAMHSA · 2024 NSDUH · Table A.56B
Access
35.8%

could not find the treatment program or healthcare professional they wanted to use.

SAMHSA · 2024 NSDUH · Table A.56B
Stability
34.4%

feared consequences such as losing a job, home, or children if people knew they were receiving treatment.

SAMHSA · 2024 NSDUH · Table A.56B
Insurance
32.4%

did not have health insurance coverage for alcohol or drug use treatment.

SAMHSA · 2024 NSDUH · Table A.56B
Everyday Logistics
19.8%

faced problems involving transportation, childcare, or appointment times that worked for them.

SAMHSA · 2024 NSDUH · Table A.56B

Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, Table A.56B. Statistics shown are among U.S. adults age 18 or older with a past-year substance use disorder who perceived an unmet need for substance use treatment. Respondents could report more than one reason, so percentages are not mutually exclusive.

The Helm Foundation supports individuals in recovery by addressing the barriers that prevent long-term success. Through direct financial assistance and community partnerships, we help fund housing, treatment access, transportation, and employment readiness — essential components of sustained and resilient recovery.

Centered in Southern Maine, The Helm Foundation is deeply connected to the broader recovery network across the Northeast. As an organization founded and led by people in recovery, we bring a unique perspective to the challenges individuals face when rebuilding their lives. Our lived experience allows us to identify and address the pivotal—but often overlooked—factors that can determine whether someone struggles or succeeds in early recovery. With strong local roots and growing regional partnerships, we aim to expand our programs and services to reach more communities throughout New England.

3% Cover the Fee

The Helm Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All contributions are tax-deductible.