The Maryhaven Women's Center helps mothers and mothers-to-be kick their addictions and blossom into healthy lives.
The staff at the center asks Maryhaven graduates to return and join current resident in planting a garden.
"Maryhaven saved my life, I got a chance to find myself here," said Nicole Fox, a Maryhaven graduate.
The women grow their own herbs and vegetables.
"I definitely think they will enjoy the different tastes, the different colors, the different textures, said clinical supervisor Natoyia Harris.
Harris said the garden provides a way for clients to relax and it reinforces the idea of eating healthy.
"I'm loving the idea because fresh cucumbers are the best," said Maryhaven client Kelly Smith.
The garden that First Lady Michelle Obama planted at the White House encouraged the women to plant their own. They sent an invitation to her to see for herself that the seed of her idea has taken root among the women who are learning how to grow.
"Planting seeds and watching them grow and blossom, just as women in the program are, I think it's a really neat idea," said client Ursula Anderson.
Nicole Fox knows firsthand about personal growth. While at Maryhaven, she kicked her addiction to drugs and alcohol and gave birth to a healthy son.
"I always want to be a contributor to this place, it saved my life, it changed my life," Fox said.
Just like the vegetables she planted in the garden, she is moving toward her place in the sun, Camber reported.
"I know what my life's calling is, to help people just like me," Fox said.
Maryhaven helps about 100 women each year renew their lives, and reunites mothers with children who were in the custody of Franklin County Children's Services. The director said the program may be in jeopardy because of state budget cuts.
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