Seized drug money goes to help center for homeless veterans

Seized drug money goes to help center for homeless veterans

By Howard Wilkinson

Joseph House, a treatment and housing center for homeless veterans in Over-the-Rhine, has received $25,000 from Hamilton County Prosecutor Mike Allen’s drug forfeiture fund.

The fund, made up of assets seized from drug dealers, distributes $75,000 to $100,000 a year to drug-treatment programs.

“Usually we don’t give as much as $25,000, but Joseph House has a really good reputation and has expanded its program,” Allen said. “I thought it was a program that would make the most of the money.”

Joseph House has been housing homeless veterans on Republic Street since 1993. Most of the men and women are suffering from drug or alcohol abuse or service-related problems.

Director Bill Malone said Joseph House offers the veterans counseling and help in beating addictions, with the goal of moving them into jobs and their own homes.

The program was recently expanded from 34 to 65 beds with the acquisition of an adjoining building. Two counselors were added.

For many of its residents, Joseph House receives payment from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The program also receives major support from Disabled American Veterans, along with individual and corporate donations.

Allen said his office gave Joseph House $12,000 last year.

“Being able to take dope dealers’ money and give it to good programs that fight drug abuse is one of the most enjoyable parts of my job,” Allen said.