Since the primary purpose of a clubhouse is to provide a community which defeats the isolation of mental illness, it is important that an applicant have the desire to participate in the Fountain House program. As participation is voluntary, it is equally important that he or she be free to do so by choice.

Membership also means having a diagnosis of major mental illness, being at least 16 years old, as this is a club for adults; having sobriety for at least 90 days, as there is no formal treatment here, and also, being able to reach the clubhouse, which usually means living in the greater New York City area.

Having developed into a model program for the clubhouse concept, Fountain House has remained true to its original mission of helping people rely on themselves, where they had often not believed they could, or had been told that they were unable. An intake committee of members and staff hears applications presented in confidence, with the intention of accepting as many people as would benefit from this clubhouse program.

NOTICE TO POTENTIAL APPLICANTS

For several years now, the number of applications received has exceeded the capacity of Fountain House and it has been necessary to restrict our intake.

At present, in order to apply, one must be in one of the categories below: either -

• A returning member, previously enrolled, or
• Sponsored by VESID to attend Fountain House, or
• Referred by any psychiatric service of St. Luke’s/Roosevelt Hospital, or
• Referred by the Safe Haven shelter or Clinton Residence of Project Renewal, at 448 West 48th Street (only), or
• Referred by Bowery Residents Committee, or
• In the age range of our young adult services program, from age 16 to 30.

There is no waiting list. Demand continues to be very high. However, if possible, we will expand these categories and post any changes here.

Anyone in one of the above categories may apply by submitting three documents to the intake/membership office

1) a completed application, CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD
2) a comprehensive psychosocial history, current or updated to within 90 days
3) a current psychiatric assessment

If you have questions, or prefer to receive the application by mail, please contact the Fountain House Intake office at (212) 582-0340, extension 240 (or 236), from 9am to 5pm, Eastern time.

When mailing materials, please direct them to the Intake office. To fax materials, please use (212) 582-6971, and address to the Intake office.

Note that Fountain House does not accept direct referrals for housing, which is available to its enrolled members.