Appalachian HOPE is a 501(c)3.
APPALACHIAN HOPE
Mercer County, West Virginia
HOUSE OF PROTECTION & EMPOWERMENT
STRENGTHENING WOMEN TO LIVE WITHOUT FEAR
Appalachian HOPE stands as a beacon of strength and resilience for women in Mercer County, WV and surrounding areas. Formerly known as the Women’s Center of Mercer County, Inc., we are committed to providing a safe haven and essential resources for women and children who face domestic violence. Our community has shown unwavering dedication and support for making this dream a reality. Together, we can foster a community of hope and healing.
Our Mission
To provide a short-term shelter for women and children fleeing domestic abuse/violence.
This shelter will provide emergency housing for between 15 -30 occupants, a 24-hour residential supervisor, counseling and a network with other agencies that will assist in transition from an abusive environment to a safe shelter and independent living.
WV has 13 Domestic Shelters for 55 counties.
The McDowell County Shelter serves Mercer County. Sometimes women are sent to the shelter in Raleigh County.
Our police are spending many hours each week driving women from Mercer County to these remote shelters.
Why?
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Mercer County is #2 in state for domestic violence cases, second only to Kanawha County
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Police typically respond to 50 domestic violence cases/month. In 2020 there were 700 domestic violence cases filed.
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Of 779 calls to the hotline, only 37 of these were placed in a shelter.
Of those calls: 71.2% were concerned for safety; 52.4% were injured; 27.4% needed medical care; 26.6% needed legal services.
Approximately 50% were also involved with drugs
Our Plan of Action – Goal to Open in 2027
2024
Apply for 501(c)3 (approved)
Purchase building (completed)
2025
Hamilton Structural Engineering Plans (completed)
Architectural Plans and MEP Plans (in process)
Get bids for construction (in progress)
Visit other Shelters (in progress)
Begin Grant Applications (in progress)
Write job descriptions and hire Executive Director
Adopt written policies and procedures
Apply for WV license for a shelter
2026
Complete renovations
Hire and train staff.
Formerly the Women’s Center of Mercer County, Inc.
Appalachian Hope, formerly the Women’s Center of Mercer County, stands as a beacon of strength and resilience for women in Mercer County, West Virginia. We are committed to providing a safe, short-term shelter and essential resources for women escaping domestic violence.
Our Vision: A Place of Hope and Healing
We envision a community where women experiencing domestic violence have access to the support and resources they need to rebuild their lives. We are dedicated to empowering, protecting, and uplifting these women, working alongside our community partners to create a place of hope and healing.
Building a Brighter Future: Our Shelter Project
In 2024 we purchased a building that is currently being renovated to meet the needs of a short-term shelter that will house 15-30 women and children. Renovations will be completed in 2026 and the shelter will be operational by early 2027. This project has been desperately needed in this area for years and the level of community support is heartwarming. Many local foundations and community organizations contributing to make this vision a reality.
*501(c)3 Application