Coastal Renaissance is a collaboration of Coastal Behavioral Healthcare, which provides 58 community-based mental health and substance use programs in six Southwest Florida counties, and Renaissance Manor, a 45-bed assisted living facility for people with mental health disorders in Sarasota.

At any given time, 300 to 400 people with substance use and mental health disorders in Sarasota are searching for affordable housing, said Christine Cauffield, president and chief executive office of Coastal Behavioral Healthcare.

"What we find is that many of these individuals not only need housing, but also structure of a site supervisor and clinical services," Cauffield said. "Many can't transition into an independent living setting."

The joint venture received funding from United Way of Sarasota County, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Sarasota Office of Housing and Community Development to build and remodel housing. Four group homes will comprise a treatment center that allows people to live independently. A nonprofit 24-bed recovery center will also be available.

Residents will have to be abstinent, work, attend group meetings, help with cleaning and cooking, and abide by a 6 p.m. curfew or get permission to be out late. Most importantly, residents must have a positive outlook on life.

"You have to have willingness and a desire to help yourself," Scott Eller, chief executive of Coastal Renaissance said. "If you can do that, we will work with you."