Purpose House in Baltimore, MD

Information last verified:

1703 East 29Th Street, Baltimore, MD 21218

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.3 from 89 reviews
5 stars
65
4 stars
9
3 stars
2
2 stars
4
1 stars
9

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Top 5% Senior Living Community in 2018

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Overall Review of Purpose House

Pros

  • pro The Hum has changed many lives by providing a safe place to heal and recover from abuse and addiction, with caring staff.
  • pro Helping Up Mission is a top-notch, Christian-based rehabilitation with a high success rate.
  • pro The Hum offers a life-changing recovery that gives people a real chance to start over with a new outlook.
  • pro Helping Up Mission's services help veterans reclaim their lives with dignity and respect.
  • pro The Hum has been miraculous for individuals and their families, helping loved ones recover.
  • pro The organization provides food, shelter, support, and spiritual guidance to those in need.
  • pro The program offers extensive education and a supportive staff, contributing to lasting recovery.
  • pro The Hum saves lives and provides ongoing support for spiritual healing and self-esteem growth.
  • pro The mission is a blessing to the community and a valuable resource for recovery and service.

Cons

  • pro The staff were mean and unprofessional and didn't help residents at all.
  • pro The organization put clients back on the streets the same day they sought help.
  • pro They charge people who have nothing, while managing millions in donations.
  • pro They push religion down people's throats to stay there, which is unacceptable.
  • pro They turned away a person with bipolar disorder and PTSD.
  • pro They take residents' food stamps and cash assistance and make them work.
  • pro Despite a multi-million budget, residents are left with no means to buy personal items or food.
  • pro They expel residents after relapse with little regard for recovery.
  • pro The overnight shelter is treated like a jail.

Review

Purpose House in Baltimore is best suited for adults who want a faith-centered, longer-term path to recovery and stable housing. The program emphasizes abstinence, spiritual renewal, and a structured daily routine, paired with practical recovery tools such as life skills coaching and employment support. It is particularly supportive for veterans and others who appreciate a holistic approach that blends devotional practice with tangible steps toward independence. The environment is described as safe, clean, and disciplined, with staff who invest in residents’ growth and a broad network of volunteers and donors that sustain the operation. For families seeking a durable, values-driven route to sobriety and re-entry into the community, this setting often delivers meaningful, lasting change.

Those who may want to consider alternatives include individuals who prefer a secular or trauma-informed framework, or who cannot engage with a religious component in treatment. Several reviews recount experiences where intake or staff interactions were challenging or inconsistent, and a few residents reported barriers related to mental health needs such as bipolar disorder or PTSD. The program’s discipline, often described as strict, with rules like “one mistake and you’re out”, can feel punitive to some, especially those navigating relapse. If immediate shelter without a religious framework, more individualized psychiatric care, or greater transparency about policies and eligibility are priorities, alternatives may better suit the situation.

On the plus side, the program’s commitment to recovery is evident in powerful, life-changing outcomes reported by residents. Numerous testimonials describe long-term sobriety, measured in years, along with restored self-worth and strengthened family ties. Staff are frequently praised for being caring, engaged, and professional, delivering guidance through meetings, case management, and connections with medical partners such as Johns Hopkins. The emphasis on service, fellowship, and accountability fosters a tight-knit community where peers support one another and alumni continue to contribute, reinforcing continuity of care. Veterans receive targeted assistance, and the comprehensive approach includes housing stability, education, and job-seeking support that helps residents transition from shelter to work and independent living.

Yet the picture isn’t flawless. Some reviewers report negative experiences at intake or during early interactions, and a handful allege concerns about governance or the handling of donations and personal property. The insistence on religious participation can feel coercive to those who do not share the same beliefs, and the church-centered framework may complicate acceptance for nonbelievers or those seeking a more pluralistic atmosphere. There are also anecdotes about overnight shelter conditions and inconsistent rule enforcement, with critics arguing that the strict discharge policy can abruptly eject individuals who have started to rebuild their lives. Taken together, these concerns highlight the importance of clarity, fairness, and sensitivity to individual trajectories when evaluating this program.

Overall, the strengths tend to outweigh the weaknesses when the fit is right. The transformative potential, rebuilding life, restoring dignity, and reconnecting with family, repeats in resident stories, underscoring the value of a stable, faith-based framework that pairs spiritual growth with practical skills. The program’s structure, accountability, and peer mentoring generate steady momentum for long-term sobriety, reducing relapse risk and supporting reintegration into work and community life. Veteran-focused elements, a robust alumni network, and partnerships with medical and social services add a safety net that can soften the impact of stricter policies, as long as participants enter with clarity about expectations. For families weighing options, Purpose House offers a credible path forward when a spiritual recovery model aligns with the resident’s beliefs and tolerance for a highly structured environment.

Decision-makers should place a high premium on alignment of values and goals. Purpose House is an excellent choice for those seeking a serious, faith-rooted route to recovery, with a proven track record of turning lives around and sustaining sobriety over the long haul. It is less suitable for individuals who require secular, trauma-informed care or who cannot tolerate religious elements in treatment. Where concerns exist about intake consistency, disciplinary policies, or handling of personal belongings, these should be addressed upfront, seek explicit clarity on rules, timelines, and post-relapse plans to avoid unmet expectations. Families should also compare secular rehabs and non-religious housing-first options to ensure a complete spectrum of care. When the fit is right, this community can be a powerful catalyst for lasting change, an anchor for sobriety, renewed purpose, and restored family connections.

Features

Housing

  • 4 resident community capacity 4 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.

Amenities

  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • Baltimore-Washington International (11 miles away) Baltimore-Washington International (11 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
  • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

Purpose House is an assisted living community located in Baltimore, MD. Our community offers a range of amenities and care services to ensure that our residents live comfortably and receive the support they need.

Our spacious dining room provides a welcoming atmosphere for residents to enjoy delicious meals prepared by our dedicated staff. The entire community is fully furnished, offering a cozy and homely environment. Residents can also take advantage of our beautiful garden and outdoor space, perfect for relaxation and socializing.

We understand the importance of maintaining a clean living environment, which is why we offer housekeeping services to all residents. Additionally, our move-in coordination services make transitioning into our community seamless and stress-free.

To keep residents connected with their loved ones and the outside world, we provide telephone lines and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access throughout the community.

At Purpose House, we prioritize the health and well-being of our residents. Our dedicated team provides assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure that residents receive proper medical care. For those with diabetes or special dietary restrictions, we offer specialized meal plans and medication management.

Transportation is an essential service for seniors, which is why we arrange transportation to medical appointments. In addition, there are numerous cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship nearby for convenience.

We believe in fostering an active lifestyle among our residents. Our scheduled daily activities provide opportunities for social engagement and entertainment.

If you are looking for an assisted living community that prioritizes comfort, support, and engaging activities in Baltimore, MD, Purpose House is here to meet your needs. Come visit us today!

Nearby Places of Interest

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.4 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.1 miles)
  • Rite Aid (2.2 miles)

Restaurants

  • McDonald's (1 miles)
  • Koco's Pub (1.4 miles)
  • Burger King (1.9 miles)
  • Blakes Crab House (2.2 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.3 miles)
  • Trinacria Macaroni Works (2.7 miles)
  • Ekiben (2.7 miles)

Hospitals

  • MedStar Union Memorial Hospital (1.3 miles)
  • Kennedy Krieger Institute (1.8 miles)
  • Osler Bulding (1.8 miles)
  • Johns Hopkins Outpatient Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
  • The Charlotte R. Bloomberg Children's Center at Johns Hopkins Hospital (2 miles)
  • UMMC Midtown Campus (2.3 miles)
  • MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital (2.4 miles)

Physicians

  • Scottish Rite Speech & Language Center (1.6 miles)
  • East Baltimore Medical Center (1.7 miles)
  • Jai Medical Center (1.9 miles)
  • University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Professional Building (2.3 miles)
  • University Health Center (3 miles)
  • Wozniak Marcella University of Maryland Medical Center Neurology (3 miles)
  • 301 Building at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center (3.4 miles)

Transportation

  • Penn Station (1.7 miles)

Cafes

  • Dooby's (2.2 miles)
  • Ceremony Coffee Roasters (2.4 miles)
  • Miss Shirley's Cafe, Roland Park (2.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.9 miles)
  • Pitango Bakery + Cafe (3 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.1 miles)

Parks

  • Patterson Park (2.6 miles)
  • Patterson Park Annex (2.7 miles)
  • Harbor Point Central Plaza (3 miles)
  • Federal Hill Park (3.2 miles)
  • Rash Field (3.2 miles)
  • Canton Waterfront Park (3.4 miles)
  • Rodgers Forge Tot Lot (3.8 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Brown Memorial Woodbrook Presbyterian Church (4.2 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Purpose House?

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