Policies & procedures

Genesis Pathways Sober Living Abuse Prevention Policy

Genesis Pathways Effective Date: October 1, 2025 Approved By: Janet Justus, Director

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1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all residents of Genesis Pathways live in an environment that is safe, supportive, and free from abuse, neglect, or exploitation. This policy outlines standards for preventing, identifying, and responding to any form of abuse within our sober living community, consistent with Texas law and our commitment to dignity, respect, and recovery.

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2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff members, contractors, volunteers, residents, and visitors of Genesis Pathways.

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3. Policy Statement

Genesis Pathways has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. All individuals associated with the program are responsible for maintaining a safe and respectful environment. Any suspicion or report of abuse will be taken seriously, promptly investigated, and addressed in accordance with Texas law and organizational procedures.

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4. Definitions

Under Texas Health & Safety Code and Texas Family Code, the following definitions apply:

· Abuse: Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act or failure to act that causes or may cause physical harm, emotional distress, sexual exploitation, or unreasonable confinement.

· Neglect: Failure to provide care, supervision, or services necessary to maintain the physical and emotional well-being of a resident.

· Exploitation: The illegal or improper use of a resident or their resources for personal or financial benefit.

· Resident: Any individual residing within the sober living home or participating in its programs.

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5. Prevention Measures

Genesis Pathways promotes abuse prevention through the following actions:

· Staff Screening: All employees and volunteers must pass background checks in accordance with Texas Health & Safety Code §250.006 and demonstrate good moral character.

· Training: All staff and volunteers receive training on recognizing, preventing, and reporting abuse, neglect, and exploitation at hire and annually thereafter.

· Resident Education: Residents are informed of their rights and how to report abuse upon intake and during orientation.

· Safe Environment: The home will maintain clear behavioral rules, supervision protocols, and conflict resolution procedures.

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6. Reporting Procedures

Any person who witnesses, suspects, or receives information about possible abuse, neglect, or exploitation must immediately report it and in writing.

a. Internal Reporting: Reports should be made promptly to:

· The House Manager, or

· The Program Director, or

· The Designated Abuse Prevention Coordinator (if applicable).

b. External Reporting: If abuse or neglect is suspected, it must also be reported to the appropriate state authorities:

· Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-5400 or https://www.txabusehotline.org

· If a resident is in immediate danger, call 911.

Failure by staff or volunteers to report suspected abuse is a violation of Texas law and may result in disciplinary action or termination or expulsion from the house if a resident. Full cooperation in any investigations by outside authorities will be provided.

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7. Response and Investigation

· All reports will be treated confidentially and investigated promptly.

· The accused individual may, at the discretion of the director, be removed from duties or the home pending investigation.

· Findings will be documented and reported to relevant authorities, up to and including appropriate law enforcement agencies, as required.

· Retaliation against anyone who reports abuse in good faith is strictly prohibited.

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8. Resident Rights

Residents have the right to:

· Live in a safe, respectful, and abuse-free environment.

· Be treated with dignity and respect.

· Report abuse without fear of retaliation or discrimination.

· Access appropriate medical, legal, and counseling support following an incident.

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9. Corrective Action

Any confirmed case of abuse, neglect, or exploitation will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or removal from the home. When applicable, law enforcement or licensing authorities will be notified.

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10. Policy Review

This policy shall be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to comply with current Texas law and best practices in resident safety and substance recovery programs.

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