Grant to Help Women Seeking Drug and Alcohol Treatment

A $25,000 grant from the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation will help local women seeking sobriety through the Soroptimist House of Hope (SHOH). The funding comes from the Coachella Valley Spotlight, a partnership between the Berger Foundation and CBS Local 2.

“Most clients come to us with only the clothes on their backs and no support system,” said Cynthia “Oma” Gray, Executive Director of Soroptimist House of Hope, located in Desert Hot Springs. “Most have no source of income, and all are classified as low-income. We strive to assist clients with the individualized support they need to combat substance abuse and lead self-sufficient, productive lives.”

Since 1981, SHOH has helped more than 3000 women through its comprehensive and effective 45-day social model program, which includes housing, 12-step meetings, therapeutic activities, structured daily household duties, and life skills workshops.

“The Soroptimist House of Hope is improving people’s lives,” said Christopher McGuire, Vice President of Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. “Not only are the clients’ lives changed, but families and friends are impacted when a person goes through treatment and maintains sobriety. This makes for stronger communities.”

SHOH is supported by contributions of local Soroptimist Clubs, individual donations, government support, plus other corporate and philanthropic grants. With this funding, SHOH expects to serve approximately 60 women in the Recovery Facility and about 12 women at the Transitional Living Center this year.

“The stories of strength and determination shared by Soroptimist House of Hope alumni who have made significant changes in their lives are inspiring,” said Mike Stutz, General Manager of Gulf California Broadcast Company, which owns and operates CBS Local 2. “It’s great to know organizations like SHOH are in our valley to help.”

Along with the funds, Soroptimist House of Hope was featured on CBS Local 2’s “Eye on the Desert,” in public service announcements and on the www.cbslocal2.comwebsite throughout the month of March. To learn more about the organization, call 760-329-4673 or visit www.recoveryhouseofhope.org