CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Charleston Catholic Middle School girls’ basketball team will help complete the landscaping at the YWCA Sojourner’s Homeless Shelter for Women and Families by planting 800 tulip bulbs on Saturday, December 13.
The planting is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. at the shelter, located at 1418 Washington Street East in Charleston.
The bulbs are expected to provide a vibrant display of color in the spring, enhancing the recently restored grounds for clients and staff.
“I’m incredibly proud of our girls,” said CCMS Coach Keshia Butler.
“Basketball teaches teamwork on the court, but projects like this show how powerful that teamwork can be off the court. This project gives our players a chance to serve others, show compassion, and understand the impact they can have in our community.”
The bulbs were donated by Valley Gardens, which also led the restoration of the shelter’s landscaping.
Under the direction of landscape architect Jason Testman, a Valley Gardens team repaired and restored pavers installed nearly two decades ago.
The original landscaping project — which included an outdoor patio, playground, courtyard, and extensive plantings — was fully funded by the West Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association (WVNLA), where Testman serves as a board member.
Jabbar Thomas, director of Sojourner’s, expressed gratitude to both organizations.
“The generosity of our region is deeply appreciated, and this landscaping restoration and bulb planting is a huge gift for all of us,” he said.
YWCA Charleston CEO Sonya Hairston said the effort carries meaning beyond aesthetics. “This project is more than beautification—it is a reminder to every woman, child, and family who walks through our doors that hope is still blooming for them.
“The care shown by Valley Gardens, WVNLA, and these remarkable young students demonstrates the heart of this community. Their gift will greet our clients every spring with color, dignity, and the simple joy of feeling seen and supported.”
