Rome, New York (October 2026) – Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. (CFLR) will bring the community together
once again for its third annual “Hope in a Bowl of Soup” event on Friday, October 23rd 2026, from 11:00am to 3:00pm at
CFLR’s Rome office, located at 201 West Dominick Street. This free community event invites individuals to gather over a
warm bowl of soup, baked goods, and meaningful conversation while learning more about local recovery resources and
the support available throughout the community.
While food is at the heart of the event, “Hope in a Bowl of Soup” represents something much greater – a reminder that
no one has to face the challenges of addiction, recovery, or difficult seasons of life alone. This event is made possible
through Erin’s Light, a recovery support initiative established in memory of Erin, who lost her battle with addiction in
2019. Through love, inspiration, grace, and hope, Erin’s Light continues to support individuals working toward recovery
and help carry Erin’s legacy forward.
CFLR’s Director of Recovery Services, Katie Rodriguez, shared, “Each year, around Erin’s birthday, CFLR brings our
community together for this. What started as a way to honor Erin has become a tradition filled with love, hope, and
connection. It’s an event our community looks forward to every year, reminding us that even the smallest acts of
kindness can make a lasting impact.”
In addition to sharing a meal and connecting with community members, guests will have an opportunity to learn more
about Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s largest drug prevention awareness campaign. This year’s theme, “Make a
Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.” encourages individuals, families, schools, and communities to work together to
make healthy, substance-free choices and build stronger futures.
Through events like “Hope in a Bowl of Soup,” CFLR continues to emphasize that recovery is possible and that
community connection can play an important role in helping individuals find hope. Whether someone is personally
navigating recovery, supporting a loved one, working in the field, or simply looking for a way to make a difference,
everyone is welcome.
Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. is proud to be the area’s leading expert in advocacy, prevention, counseling,
and employee assistance programs. Along with supporting individuals and families struggling with addiction and
recovery, mental health, and behavioral issues, CFLR’s goal is to inspire hope, provide help, promote wellness, and
transform lives. To learn more, visit www.whenthereshelpthereshope.com
