Huntington Fundraiser Raises Hope for Mothers in Recovery

When mothers share their stories of recovery on a runway alongside their children, something remarkable happens. The third annual Hope Blooms fundraiser in Huntington, West Virginia did exactly that on May 30, combining a family fashion show with the real-life journeys of women who've transformed their lives through Project Hope for Women and Children.

The sold-out event at Marshall Health Network Arena drew community supporters eager to celebrate recovery and resilience. Dozens of mothers and children walked the runway in styles from local boutiques, bringing the event's theme "Planting Seeds of Healing" to vivid life.

Project Hope stands out among treatment programs because it allows mothers to keep their children with them during recovery. The facility can house up to 17 families at once in individual units, with stays averaging six months.

Beth Hammers, chief engagement officer for Marshall Health Network, captured what makes the event special. "Behind every success story is a community of people who chose to invest in hope," she said. The fundraiser brought together dozens of local sponsors and recovery-friendly businesses to support that investment.

Director Kathleen Maynard emphasized how crucial community support is for recovery. "Their stories reflected how support, trust and advocacy can transform lives, strengthen families and create lasting impact in our communities," she explained.

The Ripple Effect

The impact extends far beyond the treatment period. Graduates can transition to Hope House, a four-apartment complex that helps women move seamlessly into permanent jobs and housing. This bridge from treatment to independence gives families the stability they need to build new futures.

Local recovery-friendly businesses Sip Downtown Brasserie, Café Appalachia, and Marshall Health Network Arena catered the brunch. More than a dozen boutiques contributed to the fashion show, demonstrating how community partnerships make recovery programs thrive.

The event featured stories from Project Hope graduates themselves, offering attendees a firsthand look at what recovery makes possible. These testimonials reminded everyone present why investing in treatment matters for entire families, not just individuals.

Project Hope, owned and operated by Marshall Health, continues accepting families in downtown Huntington. The facility provides comprehensive residential treatment that addresses substance use disorders while keeping families together during one of their most challenging seasons.

This year's fundraiser proves that communities can rally around recovery with celebration rather than stigma, turning hope into tangible support for mothers and children building brighter futures together.