Hope House For Women Opens In BV
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held last Thursday, Feb. 4, to officially open Hope House for Women and relocation of the Community Outreach Center.
Rockbridge Recovery’s Hope House is a transitional facility for those in long-term recovery from addiction. The first-of-itskind facility in the Rockbridge area will serve as a transitional residence for up to six men and four women who are in recovery.
Donors, community members and government officials participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony and toured the renovated facility, which is in a housed at 1809 Magnolia Ave., next door to the Hope House for Men at 1813 and 1833 Magnolia Ave.
“It a very unique little recovery corner,” said Jeri Schaff, chair of the Rockbridge Recovery board of directors. “The setup allows us to share peer staff for cost reduction. Although the residents reside in separate properties, they share a fenced-in backyard, resource room and recreational areas.”
Hope House provides a structured, safe and supervised residence for men and women who are beginning their recovery journey after completing a detox or rehab program. The property includes a basketball court, fitness rooms, fire pit area and a barbecue grilling area.
During their stay at Hope House, residents are supported through job placement, recovery- based classes, training programs and opportunities for recreation and community service.
“The goal is to spend six months getting these men and women ready for an independent lifestyle,” said Paula Hubbard, director of residence services. “We want them to leave with financial independence, confidence and the mindset that they can leave their old lifestyle behind them. We want them to recover out loud and allow their success stories to motivate others to do the same.”
All staff members have lived through experiences with substance abuse and are in longterm recovery. Peer recovery specialists are passionate about recovery and ready to help clients transition to a clean and sober lifestyle, said Schaff.
Hope House is accepting applications for residents. Details for admission can be found on the website, www.rrhopehouse.org. Applicants are required to complete a 28-day detox program before admittance to the house. They should also be residents of Buena Vista, Lexington or Rockbridge County.
In addition to Hope House, Rockbridge Recovery offers a variety of programs and services to support individuals struggling with substance use or maintaining recovery. A Harm Reduction program, direct referrals to inpatient facilities and community partners, approved transportation services for clients, monthly training, hygiene services and peer services, are just a few services offered.
“We have virtual capability for IOP (intensive outpatient program), counseling and psychiatric services with partner providers,” Schaff continued. “Our support groups, including Family & Friends Support, REAL Life, SMART Recovery, and Peer Support, are hosted in-person and virtually at the 1809 location. Additionally, a local Narcotics Anonymous group meets at the facility weekly.”
“One unique aspect of Rockbridge Recovery is that no appointment is needed. Anyone can walk into our Community Outreach Center at 1809 Magnolia Ave., Buena Vista, and get help right away,” explained Josh Clark, substance use services director. The office is open Mondays through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“Addictive lifestyles have increased dramatically in the last decade, impacting individuals and communities nationwide. We are thrilled to be able to offer our community a local option for a pathway to recovery,” said Ashley Jennings, community outreach director, Rockbridge Recovery.
Those who would like to support the mission of Hope House and Rockbridge Recovery can do so by mailing donations to P.O. Box 583, Buena Vista, VA 24416.
