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Our History

The Harbor Light Center has been around for more than 70 years, providing paths to recovery for any individual seeking help.

The Harbor Light Center began in Indianapolis in 1949, on South Capitol, which then became the Divisional Headquarters of The Salvation Army in Indianapolis.  When the headquarters moved to 226 East Michigan Street, the building was remodeled to accommodate 120 low-income, homeless, transient, and alcoholic men.  

On January 10, 1971, the center moved to a new facility at 311 North Capitol.  The 20,000-square-foot building contained a housing capacity for 148 residents, including dormitories for short-term residents, alcoholic rehab treatment, and small semi-private living quarters.

In the late 1970s, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Johnson donated land at the corner of Pennsylvania and St. Joseph Streets for the new relocation of the programs. The dedication of the new facility at 927 North Pennsylvania Street, with a capacity of 155 beds, took place on June 28, 1981.

In 1996, changes in State funding resulted in Harbor Light Center becoming a managed care organization for substance abuse and rehab. The Center received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) in 1999.

In 2000, continued growth in the Harbor Light Center’s programs sparked a search for a larger facility. The Harbor Light Center purchased a large complex on the city's west side in July 2001 and on November 10, 2001, the new facility at 2400 North Tibbs Avenue was dedicated.

The Harbor Light Center is proud to have served the Indianapolis area for over 70 years.  With its focus firmly on its mission, “to meet human needs in His name without discrimination”, the Salvation Army Harbor Light Center will continue to serve for years to come.

Harbor Light Center is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and conducts both weekly and Sunday morning worship services for those in treatment and rehab programs and their families.

The center offers a full continuum of Addiction & Rehab Services and a Transitional Housing Program for adults ages 18 years  including a broad spectrum of professional counseling, including psychological, vocational, and spiritual guidance. Harbor Light Center is CARF-accredited and state certified with the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction.