Frequently Asked Questions

I have/know a family member/friend who was recently released from prison/jail. I would like him/her to enter Riverside House’s program. How does that work?

I have/know a family member/friend who is currently incarcerated, but is scheduled to be released soon. I would like him/her to enter Riverside House’s program. How does that work?

In order for the offender to enter Riverside House’s program, he/she would have to be currently incarcerated at a Federal Prison and referred to our program by the Bureau of Prisons since we are a Federal contracted agency. However, if this is not the case, we do offer outpatient services for ex-offenders from the community through our Pastoral Care Program. For more information, please contact our Administrative Office at (305) 326-9799.

I have/know a family member/friend who is currently homeless and/or abusing drugs/alcohol and/or struggling with drug/alcohol addiction. I would like him/her to enter Riverside House’s program. How does that work?

Regrettably, Riverside House’s SAP (Drug/Substance Abuse/Homelessness) Program no longer exists. However, we continue to assist individuals who are homeless, abusing drug/alcohol and/or struggling with drug/alcohol addiction through our Outpatient Services. For more information, please contact our Administrative Office at (305) 326-9799.

Are residents allowed to have cell phones?

The residents are not allowed to bring cell phones with them. However, Riverside House has a cell phone program that they can apply to. We also have a public pay phone in the facility.

Does Riverside House provide food to residents?

Yes. We provide breakfast, lunch and dinner to our residents.

What are the visitation days and times for visitors to visit with a Riverside House Resident(s)?

Thursdays from 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM / Saturdays from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM / Sundays from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Can I bring my cell phone with me during visitation hours?

Visitors are not allowed to bring cell phones into the facility.

Can I give anything to a resident?

The family can bring clothing and toiletries (as long as it doesn’t contain alcohol ingredients). Keep in mind that the residents have limited space.

What is your dress code policy?

We ask that all visitors wear clothing that is conservative and modest. Wearing inappropriate clothing (including provocative and revealing items) will not be tolerated and you may be asked to leave the facility prior to your visitation.

Examples of inappropriate clothing include:

• Spandex or leotards
• Tops that are low cut or reveal the stomach
• Backless tops
• Sleevless tops
• Shorts or skirts that are more than two inches above the knee
• Skits or dresses with a high-cut slit
• Hats or caps
• Bathing suits
• Pajamas
• Clothing that looks like inmate clothing
• See through garments

Is physical contact allowed during visitation?

Handshakes, hugs and kisses (in good taste) are allowed. Staff has the authority to limit contact for security reasons including trying to introduce contraband. The Federal Bureau of Prisons does not permit conjugal visits.

When someone enters your facility, how soon can they have visitors?

Immediate family is allowed to visit during the first week. Additional family members are allowed to visit once they are added to the visitation list.

How old do visitors have to be?

Individual visitors must be 18 of years or older. If someone is under the age of 18 the person needs to be accompanied by an adult.

What is Riverside House’s Residential Reentry admission criteria, including rules, and regulations?

Please email us and we will provide upon request.