Serenity Inns Opens New Addiction Treatment Center in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (Aug. 14, 2024) — Serenity Inns today opened a new $3 million, 6,000-square-foot residential treatment facility for men seeking recovery from opioid use disorder in the heart of Milwaukee’s 53208 zip code. This expansion will add 14 much-needed beds to its existing residential treatment services, allowing the organization to serve an additional 56 men a year.

The new center is located at 2830 W. Brown St. It sits adjacent to Serenity Inns’ existing 12-bed treatment facility, which is celebrating its 20^th anniversary this year. Serenity Inns also runs a sober living ‘alumni house’ that accommodates 14 men who have successfully emerged from its treatment program.

The new treatment center reinforces Serenity Inns’ dedication to providing comprehensive support and a path to recovery for men, regardless of their resources. Serenity Inns is the only facility in the Milwaukee area that will take individuals who cannot afford to pay.

“This is an immense turning point in our relentless fight against substance use disorder and the overdose deaths that have devastated the community,” said Kenneth Ginlack, CEO of Serenity Inns. “This new center will allow Serenity Inns to make an even greater impact in the fight against substance use disorder. We would not have been able to open this new treatment facility without the support of our wonderful donors, elected officials, and other community supporters.”

The organization has stood at the forefront of combating substance use disorder and the devastating opioid epidemic in Milwaukee. It offers a holistic approach to recovery, addressing physical, social, emotional, financial, and spiritual well-being. Serenity Inns’ efforts have provided a path to recovery for 690 men.

“Wisconsin is proud to recognize Serenity Inns for expanding their recovery housing supports,” said Wisconsin Department of Health Services Deputy Secretary Deb Standridge. “The need for residential treatment is high in our state and we are fortunate to have such a dedicated team bring a lifeline to those who need a fresh start. We applaud the commitment that Serenity Inns has to help empower and guide those who need hope.”

The need for expanded treatment options has never been more urgent. Serenity Inns receives an average of five calls per day from individuals seeking help. The County recently reported an estimate of approximately 200 people in need of residential treatment services.

“The opioid crisis continues devastating our communities. As we envision a healthier future for Milwaukee County, we must ensure that folks can receive the help they need. That’s why my administration is working with partners like Serenity Inns to expand mental health and substance use services for residents pursuing a second chance,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “The new Serenity Inns treatment facility will help increase access to intervention resources and supportive services for those choosing recovery over substance abuse in Milwaukee County, so we can create better health outcomes, strengthen neighborhoods, and save lives.”

As Milwaukee is faced with an overwhelming demand for treatment services, the expansion of Serenity Inns’ facilities offers a glimmer of hope to those desperately seeking a path to recovery.

“I welcome Serenity Inns’ new Treatment Center to Milwaukee because the people behind Serenity Inns are working to transform lives, to meet the needs of individuals facing challenges, and to offer direction toward a positive future,” said Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson. “Essential work is underway to address the opioid crisis in Milwaukee. I commend the entire Serenity Inns team for their efforts to make our region healthier and more resilient, offering a lifeline and hope to those who connect with them.”

Faced with the increasing demand for services, Serenity Inns launched a $3 million capital campaign in 2023 to fund the new treatment center. Milwaukee Bucks legend and former NBA All-Star Marques Johnson serves as a cabinet member for the capital campaign. By continuing to successfully deal with his own struggles with substance use disorder one day at a time, Johnson deeply understands the role of support and community in the recovery journey.

“Serenity Inns has supported numerous men in recovery;” said Johnson. “This new facility will continue those efforts to bring healing to what seemed to be hopeless cases of mind and body.”

Serenity Inns will also open a new SUD Drop-In Clinic at 631 N. 19th Street inside Olga Neighborhood Wellness Services by the end of the year. The clinic is open to everyone, insured or uninsured, providing a safe space to seek help and access resources.

About Serenity Inns:

Serenity Inns has been at the forefront of providing recovery and treatment services since its establishment in 2004. A collaborative effort initiated by a group of Lutheran churches in the Milwaukee area, the organization emerged to address the pressing need for residential treatment for men struggling with alcohol and drug addictions. With its growth, Serenity Inns has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing structured vocational and rehabilitative services within an environment of support and accountability, enabling men to rebuild their lives. Over the years, Serenity Inns has successfully treated over 690 men through its holistic residential program, which spans three phases over seven months. This comprehensive program addresses its participants’ physical, social, emotional, financial, and spiritual health needs, empowering them to recover and become productive members of society. Serenity Inns prides itself on fostering an environment of support, accountability, and dignity, making it an ideal setting for men committed to lasting change. For more information about Serenity Inns and its capital campaign, please visit www.serenityinns.org, email pr@serenityinns.org or call Serenity Inns at (414) 873-5474.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.