LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – In conjunction with local coffee houses and restaurants in Lake County, teams from Lake Family Resource Center's California HOPE project are offering opportunities for casual connection through their “Cup of HOPE” series.

The events are free and open to those impacted by recent wildfires.

Whether it's connecting and chatting with neighbors or discussing progress and concerns about recovery, the weekly one hour Cup of HOPE gatherings offer ongoing connection and support.

"Healing and rebuilding after our recent fires is a process that takes time and strength," noted Lake Family Resource Center California HOPE Team Lead JoAnn Saccato. "We know we can come through a disaster easier and stronger if we keep up our social connections. The generous offering of our partners for this series makes this possible for more community members."

Cup of HOPE occurs weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout Lake County at the following times and locations:

– Tuesdays, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., at Stormi G's Coffee House, 12595 CA-20, Clearlake Oaks.
– Wednesdays, 2 to 3 p.m., at the Boathouse Restaurant, 2685 Lakeshore Boulevard, Upper Lake.
– Thursdays, 9 to 10 a.m., at the Howling Dog Cafe, 2626 South Main Street, Lakeport.
– Thursdays, 11 a.m. to noon, at the Common Grounds Coffee House, 9730 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville.

"Come for a cup of coffee, conversation and support," invited Yesenia Rodriguez, Lake Family Resource Center California HOPE outreach worker. "Reconnect with neighbors and share your experiences, resources and hope."

In addition to the Cup of HOPE, Lake Family Resource Center Cal HOPE teams are sponsoring an inspirational Hike of HOPE on May 11 on the Wright Summit Trail of Mt. Konocti, as well as Walks of HOPE weekly through the month of April at various trails throughout the county.

Lake Family Resource Center's California HOPE is a short term community based project helping Lake County residents recover from recent wildfires.

Outreach workers provide free and confidential services to individuals, families, groups and organizations impacted by recent fires, including information and linkage to resources, emotional support, education, and community networking opportunities.

Additionally, free workshops and educational presentations exploring the phases and reactions to disasters are available to groups, schools, businesses and organizations.

For more information on Lake Family Resource Center’s California HOPE and upcoming activities and events, visit www.lakefrc.org/calhope or the Facebook page, or call 707-349-5203.

Services are provided by Lake Family Resource Center through a grant from Lake County Behavioral Health Services.