GIVE
HELP

Packing List for NELA Supportive Communities

Welcome to NELA Supportive Communities! As you prepare for your stay, we’ve put together a comprehensive packing list to help you bring everything you’ll need for a comfortable and successful recovery journey. Please review the list below to ensure you have all the essentials.

Essential Documents

  • Photo Identification
    • Driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
  • Insurance Cards
    • Health insurance information (if applicable).
  • Emergency Contact Information
    • Names and phone numbers of family members or trusted contacts.
  • Medical Documentation
    • Prescription lists, doctor’s notes, or any relevant medical records.
  • Legal Documents
    • Court papers, probation or parole information (if applicable).

Clothing

  • Everyday Wear
    • Comfortable shirts and blouses.
    • Pants, jeans, or skirts.
    • Undergarments and socks.
  • Sleepwear
    • Pajamas or nightgowns.
  • Outerwear
    • Jacket or coat suitable for the season.
    • Sweaters or hoodies.
  • Footwear
    • Casual shoes or sneakers.
    • Slippers or flip-flops for indoor use.
  • Workout Clothes
    • Athletic wear if you plan to exercise.
  • Accessories
    • Belt, hat, or gloves (seasonal).
  • Formal Attire
    • One set of modest clothing for special occasions or job interviews.

Note: Laundry facilities are available on-site. Please bring enough clothing for at least one week.

Personal Hygiene Items

  • Toiletries
    • Toothbrush and toothpaste.
    • Shampoo and conditioner.
    • Soap or body wash.
    • Deodorant.
    • Hairbrush or comb.
    • Feminine hygiene products (if applicable).
    • Shaving supplies (razor, shaving cream).
  • Skincare
    • Moisturizer, sunscreen, or any preferred skincare items.
  • Miscellaneous
    • Nail clippers.
    • Cotton swabs.
    • Tissues.

Note: All personal hygiene products must be alcohol-free and not contain any intoxicating substances.

Bedding and Linens

  • Additional Bedding (optional)
    • Twin-size bed sheets.
    • Pillow and pillowcases.
    • Blanket or comforter.
  • Additional Towels (optional)
    • Bath towels.
    • Hand towels.
    • Washcloths.

Note: Bedding and linens are provided, but bringing your own is optional for added comfort.

Medications

  • Prescription Medications
    • Bring all current prescriptions in original pharmacy bottles with labels.
    • Over-the-counter medications as approved by the House Manager.
  • Medical Devices
    • Glasses, contact lenses and solution.
    • Hearing aids.
    • CPAP machine (if needed).

Note: All medications must be disclosed and will be stored securely as per the house policies. Controlled medications or medications containing any type of narcotics or other addictive substances are prohibited regardless of prescription status.

Electronics

  • Allowed Devices
    • Cell phone and charger.
    • Personal laptop or tablet.
    • MP3 player or iPod (no internet capability preferred).
  • Restrictions
    • Devices should not contain inappropriate or triggering content.
    • Use of electronics should not disturb other members.

Personal Items

  • Alarm Clock
    • Battery-operated or electric.
  • Journal and Writing Materials
    • Notebook, pens, or pencils for personal reflection or assignments.
  • Books and Reading Materials
    • Recovery literature.
    • Inspirational or educational books.
  • Hobbies
    • Sketchbook, knitting supplies, or other small hobby items.

Miscellaneous

  • Reusable Water Bottle
    • For personal hydration.
  • Small Lockbox
    • For securing personal valuables.
  • Umbrella or Rain Gear
    • Depending on the season.
  • Earplugs or Sleep Mask
    • For shared room comfort.

Financial Considerations

  • Payment for Membership Fees
    • Prepare to pay your weekly membership fee upon arrival.
    • We accept cash, check, money order, credit/debt cards, Cashapp, or Venmo
  • Personal Spending Money
    • For personal needs, transportation, or miscellaneous expenses.

Transportation

  • Public Transit Pass
    • If you plan to use local bus services.
  • Bicycle
    • Optional, if you prefer cycling (secure storage may be limited).

Optional Items

  • Musical Instruments
    • Small, non-disruptive instruments (with approval).
  • Sports Equipment
    • Such as a yoga mat or tennis racket (space permitting).
  • Photographs
    • Personal photos to decorate your personal space (adhering to decoration guidelines).

Prohibited Items

To maintain a safe and supportive environment, please do not bring the following:

  • Alcohol or Drugs
    • Including any products containing alcohol (e.g., hand sanitizer, mouthwash, or cough syrups).
    • Controlled medications or medications containing any type of narcotics or other addictive substances regardless of prescription status.
    • Aerosol or possible inhalant products such as paint, fuel, furniture polish, spray deodorant, or hairspray.
  • Weapons
    • Firearms, knives of any kind, or any type of weapon.
  • Drug Paraphernalia
    • Any items associated with substance use.
  • Candles or Incense
    • No open flames are permitted.
  • Aerosol Products
    • Such as spray deodorants or hairsprays.
  • Personal Appliances
    • Space heaters, hot plates, or mini-fridges.
  • Pornographic Materials
    • Including magazines, videos, or digital content.
  • Gambling Items
    • Playing cards, dice, or other gambling-related items.
  • Pets
    • No animals are allowed.
  • Valuables
    • Large sums of money or expensive jewelry are discouraged.

Important Reminders

  • Label Personal Items
    • To prevent mix-ups in shared spaces.
  • Limit Belongings
    • Storage space may be limited; bring only what is necessary.
  • Adhere to Policies
    • Ensure all items comply with NELA Supportive Communities’ Member Handbook and policies.

If you have any questions about what to bring or need clarification on any items, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us before your arrival. We’re here to help make your transition into our community as smooth as possible.

We look forward to welcoming you to NELA Supportive Communities and supporting you on your journey to recovery.