Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation recently received a significant donation of over $684,000 from the board of directors of Stanton Hospitality House. This generous pledge will create the Margaret Stanton Hospitality House Endowment. Its purpose is to provide ongoing support for families needing accommodation while their loved ones receive treatment at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.
For more than 30 years, the Stanton Hospitality House on Roxie Avenue was a refuge for families of hospitalized patients. Unfortunately, it closed in August 2024 due to the building’s age and financial challenges. However, thanks to the endowment, the mission of providing support to these families will continue.
The endowment will not only protect the principal investment but also use its earnings to help families find lodging in nearby motels or short-term rentals. This assistance will benefit many families facing financial struggles, such as parents with infants in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Margaret Stanton, who was a board member of the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation, founded the Stanton Hospitality House in 1991. Her dedication to helping those in need resonates in this new initiative. "Her passion was providing care for those less fortunate, including those with hospitalized loved ones," said Sabrina Brooks, Vice President of the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation.
The endowment aims to ensure that families with limited resources can stay close to their loved ones during critical times. This support alleviates the stress of finding affordable lodging and allows families to be there during recovery.
William "Bill" Hedgepeth, President of the Stanton Hospitality House Board, expressed gratitude for the generosity shown by Mrs. Stanton and the donors. He emphasized the importance of continuing her legacy of providing housing for families in need.
In recent times, many similar initiatives have gained attention. For instance, a study by the American Hospital Association found that over 60% of hospitals have programs to support patients and their families with lodging during treatment. The growing recognition of the importance of familial support during recovery highlights the relevance of the Margaret Stanton Hospitality House Endowment.
This valuable initiative not only honors Margaret Stanton’s legacy but also addresses a critical need in the community: the need for accessible housing during medical emergencies.
For more information on the foundation’s ongoing work, you can visit the Cape Fear Valley Health website.