CELINA, OHIO — Mercer County House of Hope in Celina is continuing its mission to help local residents struggling with addiction find recovery, stability and a path forward.

Executive Director Roberta Bonifas joined WCSM’s Spectrum along with Women’s House Manager Candice Wilson and Men’s House Manager Cody Bonifas to talk about the work being done through House of Hope. The faith based recovery program is located on Mud Pike and serves both men and women.

Bonifas said House of Hope offers residents a chance to rebuild their lives through faith, structure, recovery meetings, accountability and support. Residents are asked to have 30 days clean before entering the facility. From there, they work through phases that include finding employment, attending meetings, taking responsibility and preparing to return to the community with a stable place to live and a healthier support system.

Community support remains a major part of the program. Bonifas said House of Hope has received help from local residents through donations, volunteer work, hygiene products, clothing, food and other supplies. The organization is also working to replace items lost in a recent garage fire, including outdoor equipment and tools. Bonifas said Cooper Farms is also helping with landscaping work at the property.

Wilson said daily life inside the women’s house depends on where each resident is in the program, but the overall goal is to build structure and accountability. Residents attend church, Bible study, recovery meetings and work with sponsors. Wilson also said House of Hope helps residents follow through with outside counseling and appointments when needed.

Cody Bonifas said one of the biggest challenges for men in recovery is learning how to open up instead of holding everything inside. He said men often feel like they have to be tough all the time, but recovery requires communication, honesty and asking for help before things reach a breaking point.

The program also recognizes the importance of family. Wilson said House of Hope works to help both mothers and fathers maintain safe and appropriate relationships with their children when possible, including supervised visits and scheduling time for family connection.

As the conversation wrapped up, Roberta Bonifas said her message to anyone struggling is that hope is still available.

She said people should not feel like they are walking through addiction or recovery alone, and that House of Hope can be reached through its website or Facebook page. Bonifas said messages go directly to staff, and the organization works to be available when people need help.

Those interested in learning more, applying, donating or supporting the program can visit Mercer County House of Hope online or find the organization on Facebook.

This story is based on the Spectrum interview with Roberta Bonifas, Candice Wilson and Cody Bonifas.