Utica, NY (November 2025) — CFLR is proud to announce the return of its Holiday Hope initiative, Erin’s Light Heartwarming Campaign, as an effort dedicated to supporting individuals in the Mohawk Valley who are struggling with addiction, mental health issues and behavioral challenges. Through initiatives like this that inspire hope and promote wellness, CFLR aims to create a stronger, healthier community where everyone has access to the help they need.
This holiday season, we invite you to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families in need by participating in our outreach efforts. As part of our Erin’s Light efforts and during street outreach, CFLR staff will be collecting items for individuals in recovery that will go towards the creation of Holiday Hope Gift bags. The initiative
aims to not only provide physical items but also to deliver a message of hope and care to individuals and families facing difficult circumstances. Any donation can make a lasting impact! “We’re incredibly grateful to bring our Holiday Hope initiative back this year,” expressed Katie Rodriguez, CFLR’s Co-Director of Recovery and Community Services. “The Heartwarming Campaign is close to our hearts because it
allows us to support individuals and families in recovery during a season that can be especially difficult. It’s a meaningful way for us to give back, offer hope, and remind people on their journey that they are se en, heard, and never alone.”
To make this initiative a success, CFLR is seeking donations of essential items to fill the Holiday Hope Gift Bags. The items needed include: hats, gloves, hand warmers, journals, and health/beauty products. Donations can be dropped off at either of the following locations: CFLR’s Utica Office (502 Court Street, Suite 401, Utica, NY 13502)
or the Rome Office (201 West Dominick Street, Rome, NY 13440). In addition to item donation drop-offs, supporters can also contribute by purchasing directly from CFLR’s Amazon Wish List or by making a monetary donation. QR codes are available on the attached flyer for easy access and foron the go convenience, donations can also be made by texting CFLR2025 to 50155.
Please note: Item donations are due by December 11th and street outreach will be held on December 18th. Monetary donations will remain open and must be submitted by 12:00am on January 1st – these deadlines are in place to ensure timely distribution and impact. For businesses interested in donating or becoming a drop-off location, please contact Katie Rodriguez, Co-Director of Recovery and Community Services, at 315-795-5229.

