Walter Hoving Home Holds Annual Walk-a-thon

Sixty residents and friends of Walter Hoving Home, walked 5 miles from Garrison to Cold Spring on Saturday morning in support of their center that provides help to any and all women, 17 years old and older, who suffer from addictions and lifecontrolling problems. Beth Greco, the vice president of the home, reported that the walkers raised over $11,000 by soliciting support from their benefactors, families, friends, and other sponsors by a letter-writing campaign and through their website.

She went on to explain that the women who live here come from all over the country and are referred to Walter Hoving Home through hospitals, prisons, and churches. "We provide two Christ-centered programs of six months and one year. Sixty women are currently housed here and thousands of women have graduated from our home since John Benton and his wife, Elsie, purchased this property in 1967. We have 15 women who will be graduating on July 18 who we believe are prepared to go out and re-build their once-shattered lives".

All of the residents have jobs at Walter Hoving Home. Vicky, from Oldbridge, NJ, has been a resident at the center for 3 months and her job is "housekeeping supervisor." Her father, Bob, was visiting for the day from Pennsylvania. "I usually come on Saturdays because Sundays are so busy here, since our Women's Choir goes out every Sunday to perform at area churches," he explained. Kate, from Cape May, NJ, came to the home in April and works as the center's receptionist. Her sponsor for the walk was her dad and his church. Sharron, a resident from Philadelphia, PA, said that she loved the walk because the Main St. of Cold Spring reminded her of a town she knew--New Hope, PA--that also has beautiful, historic buildings and shops. Sharron remarked, "This program works because it is Christ-centered. It makes a difference in how people treat each other and what expectations we have for behavior here". Her job is "Kitchen Clean-up Supervisor." Linda, from Baltimore, MD, arrived at the home 7 weeks ago. "I am the 'Breakfast and Lunch Cook' and I just love it here", she said, "I am here working to build a relationship with God." Tamara, a young woman from Buffalo, NY, arrived just three days ago. She heard about The Walter Hoving Home from her Youth Minister at her Church. Tamara said that she loved the walk down to the scenic Hudson River. "I wanted to hop on a sailboat," she remarked. Tamara has been assigned to the "Maintenance Team" which includes lawn-mowing and yard work. "Hard work," she said, "but we're all in this together".

Asked how the public could support the mission of Walter Hoving Home, Mrs. Greco replied, "Anyone can call us at 424-3674 or visit our website, www.walterhovinghome. com to offer financial assistance. Some people even choose to "adopt" one of our ladies and pay for her time here with us."

The non-profit rehabilitation center is located on Snake