In 1961, ten laymen accepted the challenge of providing a home for homeless alcoholics by signing a note on a local bank for funds needed to purchase a building, which is presently the Matt Talbot Home. In April, 1962 the first guests were admitted and they assisted in providing much needed housekeeping for other guests soon to follow. A paid staff consisting of resident manager and a cook were hired. The Board of Directors decided it should operate as a private, not-for-profit unit and applied for a tax-exempt status. It was agreed that the room and board payments made by the men living in the home should take care of the day-to-day cost of operation the home.... such payment covering two meals per day and a night's lodging. It was then and is now necessary to look to our friends to assist in providing needed funds to take care of any expenses for major repairs. Proper ceremony took place when the mortgage on 1424 Central Avenue was burned.

The Talbot House was named for Matt Talbot, a native of Ireland, born in 1856. Matt was an alcoholic until his death in 1925.

The Board of Directors actively participates in the supervision and operation of Talbot House. The resident manager and guests have weekly meetings to discuss matters pertaining to the operation of the house. The Friends of Talbot House is an organization consisting of a nucleus of former guests who have returned to society and others (mostly recovering alcoholics) who are interested in Talbot house. they serve as liaison between the Board of Directors and the guests as well as take care of small repairs and improvements.

It is stressed that all men in need of assistance are welcome, regardless of race or creed. Each man who enters the Talbot House does so voluntarily with the understanding of one important rule. "No drinking on or off premises". Any violation could result in eviction. Referrals come form alcoholic treatment centers around the state, such as, Veterans Hospitals, Indiana State Farm, Salvation Army Detoxification Center, Division of Addiction Services, State Department of Mental Health, Courts and Clergy as well as family.

Guests are encouraged to attend the weekly A.A. meeting held at the house and to attend other outside A.A. activities. Each man is responsible for keeping his living quarters in order and is expected to share in the care of the community facilities. The manager assigns duties and has full responsibility for the screening and admission of guests. The manager comes under the supervision of the House Committee, consisting of Board members.

Alcoholism is a progressive disease that destroys a person mentally, physically and spiritually but it can be arrested with proper. Each man who searches for sobriety is someone's son, father, brother, or husband. The initial treatment of the disease of alcoholism is detoxification. After detox many recovering alcoholics need a home because they have lost their families or whatever support system they may have had. A halfway house is often the solution as the next step in recovery. Talbot House offers a wholesome, family-like atmosphere for one having a sincere desire to maintain sobriety. When a man is physically and mentally able to seek employment, he is expected to do so.

Over the years, Talbot House has made a lasting contribution to our community. We invite you to share in this experience by dropping by to pay us a visit or giving us your contribution to help alcoholics become productive citizens again.