See photos from First Lady Melania Trump’s visit with families affected by opioids

First Lady Melania Trump visited Cabell-Huntington Health Department in West Virginia yesterday to promote that community’s efforts to combat the opioid crisis.

“We have an opportunity to move the needle to help families and children who have been impacted by opioid abuse,” the First Lady said. “Meeting with federal, state, and local leaders in Huntington, West Virginia, today proved the power of partnerships and community efforts.”

In photos: Women of Huntington share their stories with the First Lady

After a roundtable with these leaders, Mrs. Trump met with a small group of women who have been affected closely by the crisis. Among the participants were Huntington’s Fire Chief, leadership from the Lily’s Place treatment facility, a representative from a first responder wellness program, a recovery coach, and a recovering mother along with her 5-month-old child.

Each one shared stories about their own experiences with America’s opioid crisis, as well as the positive impact the community has had on these families.

The First Lady has been an advocate for programs that help change the lives of families who have been hurt by the opioid epidemic. As communities across America have been devastated, the lives of countless children are put in harm’s way. Visits like yesterday’s are a crucial piece of Mrs. Trump’s signature “Be Best” initiative, which focuses on the most pressing issues facing children today.

“Through BE BEST, I continue to learn about the many issues and challenges surrounding opioid addiction,” Mrs. Trump said. Using this platform, “we can continue to promote programs and highlight resources available to all those who are seeking help with this national epidemic.”

Before departing West Virginia, the First Lady took a moment to visit Ritter Park, where 453 American flags dot a grass field. Each flag represents a child in the foster care system in the Huntington, West Virginia, area—many as a result of the opioid epidemic.

Learn more about First Lady Melania Trump’s “Be Best” initiative.

President Trump welcomes Amir of Qatar

This week, President Donald J. Trump has played host to a special guest: His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.

“President Trump, friends: It’s a great honor to join you again in Washington, D.C. Thank you for your continued hospitality,” Qatar’s leader said last night at a dinner hosted by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. “My visit this week will reaffirm the ideals we share.”

Watch: President Trump meets with the Amir of Qatar in the Oval Office

The U.S.–Qatar alliance is more important than ever, both in the fight against global terrorism and as part of President Trump’s efforts to restore fair, reciprocal trade. Today, that relationship got even stronger, with the Amir announcing a series of large airway purchases—including five Boeing 777 freighters.

Read the joint statement from President Trump and the Amir of Qatar.

Photo of the Day

Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks

First Lady Melania Trump participates in an opioids roundtable with state and local community leaders at Cabell-Huntington Health Department in Huntington, West Virginia | July 8, 2019