Morgantown Addiction Facility Secures Workforce Grant

The Appalachian Regional Commission awarded $211,700 to support job training programs at Lauren's Wish.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Substance Abuse

Gouache-painted illustration of a metal toolbox on a workbench, symbolizing the tools for workforce development and recovery in Morgantown. — Lauren's Wish in Morgantown received $211,700 from the Appalachian Regional Commission to expand its CAREERS initiative, providing essential job training for recovery. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Lauren's Wish has received a $211,700 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to bolster its CAREERS workforce re-entry initiative. The program assists individuals in recovery through job training and transportation support.

Why it matters

The funding aims to replace the traditional treat and street approach for overdose recovery with sustainable workforce development. This initiative supports community recovery efforts by helping clients transition back into the labor market.

Lauren's Wish has served approximately 1,700 clients to date, with more than 80% opting for long-term rehabilitative care. The facility operates out of Hazel's House of Hope on Scott Avenue in Morgantown.

The players

Lauren's Wish

This organization provides drug treatment triage and recovery support services.

Appalachian Regional Commission

This federal-state partnership focuses on economic and community development across the Appalachian region.

Patrick Morrisey

He serves as the Governor of West Virginia and announced the funding allocation.

The details

The CAREERS program helps clients return to the workforce by offering specific job training and transportation assistance. Lauren's Wish provides drug treatment triage and encourages patients to remain at the clinic for a prescribed period to ensure stability.

Lauren Cole died in 2020.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced the grant on October 12, 2026.

Health Landscape

This grant aligns with the Appalachian Regional Commission's community recovery initiatives to combat the opioid crisis. The funding marks a shift from reactive care models toward proactive workforce integration in the region.

Clients at Lauren's Wish will gain access to structured job training and transportation resources to aid their recovery journey. These tools are designed to facilitate a smoother transition back into employment and daily community life.

The takeaway

Focusing on workforce re-entry is becoming a critical component of addiction recovery support. Providing resources for job training helps individuals regain stability and maintain long-term sobriety.