Over the last couple of months, the team at the Parkview Behavioral Health Institute Carew Outpatient Addiction Medication Clinic has worked hard to transform a storage room for donated clothing into the Hem & Hope Boutique.
Brittney Crabill, BSN, RN, director, PBHI clinics, explained that many individuals at the start of their recovery journey often arrive with little more than the clothes they are wearing. The space operates as a resource for those receiving care to access essential items immediately without barriers or delays.
"Recovery is more than clinical treatment. It is also about how we make people feel as they walk through one of the most difficult seasons of their lives. We want clients to feel seen, valued, respected and worthy of dignity," said Abby Holloway, PBHI clinic manager.
The vision behind Hem & Hope is for guests to leave with something they need and something they can feel. This can include a new outfit, a good book, a word of encouragement, and, most importantly, a reminder that they matter and that there is hope for what comes next.
Boutique visitors can choose items based on what they need, what fits, and what makes them feel comfortable and confident. Available items include:
- Clothing and shoes
- Coats
- Professional attire for work and interviews
- Hygiene items
- Recovery transition items
- Journals
- Bibles and devotionals
- Recovery resources
- Employment and community resources
The boutique also includes a small library offering recovery, personal growth, faith-based, resilience, and inspirational materials. One element of the space Abby is particularly excited about is the “Leave a Little Hope” area where clients, alumni, staff, volunteers and community members can leave an encouraging note, Scripture, or affirmation for the next person. Ideas such as "Your story isn't over,” “You are worthy of hope,” or “This is a new beginning.” Over time, someone who once needed hope may return as someone who leaves hope for another.
The name "Hem & Hope" is inspired by Matthew 9:20–22, which tells the story of a woman who reached out in faith to touch the hem of Jesus' garment. Her story symbolizes the themes of faith, healing, restoration, dignity, and hope that the team hopes to share with everyone who visits the boutique.
"Ultimately, this space is intended to be a place of hope and a place where healing begins. It is an opportunity to create a space where someone can choose, breathe, feel cared for, and begin to see themselves not simply as someone recovering from addiction, but as someone moving toward a new chapter," said Abby.
