Bravo Zulu House opens as first sober home for veterans

Bravo Zulu House, a new sober living facility dedicated to military veterans suffering from substance use disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), officially opened its doors on Wednesday in Winnebago, Southern Minnesota. This facility is the first of its kind in the United States, aiming to provide a supportive environment for veterans in recovery.

During the grand opening ceremony, approximately 300 attendees, including veterans, their families, local officials, mental health professionals, and donors, gathered to celebrate the launch of this unique initiative. The facility will accommodate up to 12 male veterans as they work on their recovery journeys while receiving specialized support for PTSD.

Research conducted by the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs highlights a concerning trend: veterans struggling with both mental health issues like PTSD and substance use disorders show elevated rates of suicidal thoughts. Bravo Zulu House aims to address these challenges through a combination of traditional therapies and innovative support options.

Mike Feia, a U.S. Navy veteran and the live-in house manager, shared his personal experience with addiction and depression, emphasizing the importance of peer support among veterans. “Veterans talking to veterans truly understand the complexities of these struggles, especially those who have faced combat situations,” Feia stated after the ribbon-cutting.

Tim Murray, the executive director of Bravo Zulu House, expressed the necessity of providing a safe haven for veterans who have served the country and are facing significant challenges. He stated that the mission is to equip residents with the skills and tools necessary to maintain sobriety, effectively manage PTSD, and succeed in their personal and professional lives.

In addition to counseling and therapy, Bravo Zulu House will incorporate therapy dogs into its treatment plan. Each resident will be paired with a dog, and the program will be tailored to meet the individual needs of the veterans. Murray aims to collect data on the effectiveness of this approach to advocate for similar programs nationwide.

The total investment for the Bravo Zulu House is $2.25 million, primarily funded through private donations, including contributions from corporate sponsors. The facility collaborates with Mayo Clinic Health System to ensure comprehensive treatment offerings.

Looking ahead, Bravo Zulu House plans to expand its services by opening a sober house for women in Mankato by late 2026. With its unique focus on veterans, Bravo Zulu House seeks to become a vital resource in combating veteran suicide and aiding those in recovery from addiction.