02/04/2026
Celebrating 18 Years of Hope, Healing, and Community!
Founded February 4, 2008
Today we honour the story of how Sophia Recovery Centre began. A story rooted in compassion, courage, and community.
Sophia Recovery Centre was founded by Sister Arleen Brawley and Sister Mary Beth McCurdy in 2008. On the very first day the little house on Hazen Street opened its doors, something happened that Sister Mary Beth has never forgotten:
“The first visitor to ring the doorbell was a woman carrying a contribution of a delicious loaf of banana bread. Ever since that day, the doorbell has never stopped ringing.”
That small act of kindness became a symbol of what Sophia Recovery Centre would grow to be a welcoming place where women show up, lift one another up, and bring something meaningful. Sometimes a story, sometimes strength, sometimes simply their presence.
Through the years, each new visitor has added to a growing community of wisdom, courage, and shared support. What began as a dream has become a powerful network of women walking the path of recovery together.
As we celebrate 18 years, we honour our founders, our staff, our volunteers, our partners, and every woman who has walked through our doors, whether with banana bread, bravery, or hope in her heart.
Thank you for helping keep the doorbell ringing. 💜
