Over the four decades that CASPAR has provided services to individuals struggling with substance abuse, they have earned a reputation as a pioneer in effectively serving this at-risk population. Their services address needs at every stage of what they call the "the substance use/abuse/recovery continuum" "from street outreach to aftercare housing." Each year, they provide treatment—and often life-saving services—to approximately 2,500 adults and youths in Somerville and Cambridge.
Programs include street teams that connect homeless individuals with medical, shelter and psychiatric services, as well as meal programs and substance abuse treatment. A system of pre-treatment transitional housing, long-term treatment residences, and aftercare housing serves men, women, and pregnant or parenting mothers in individual centers. Youth programs combine counseling with positive afterschool activities and volunteer service to address substance abuse.
The organization relies on individual, corporate and foundation support for its funding. Volunteers are welcome to help prepare and serve meals or sort clothing donations at their Emergency Service Center at 240 Albany St., Cambridge.