Since 2003 September tenth has been recognized as World Suicide Prevention Day in conjunction with the World Health Organization.
“It’s an advocacy and communication based event,” Evan Pantanetti, Crisis Line Coordinator at Canadian Mental Health Association Cariboo-Chilcotin, “aimed at reaching national organizations, governments, and the general public to give a singular message that suicide can be prevented.”
In Williams Lake, Canadian Mental Health Association Cariboo-Chilcotin (CHMA), will be hosting a Lantern Walk this evening (September 10).
“Everyone is welcome to come to our office located on Second Avenue South in the Bank Of Montreal building at 7:45 to make lanterns to remember those we have lost to suicide and to help spread awareness and relive stigma,” Rahne Brunsch, CHMA Team Lead of Crisis Intervention and Prevention said.
At 8:30 a walk will begin going down Second Avenue South and up Oliver Street to City Hall.
“There will be a speech made there to recognize the day as well as a moment of silence to remember those we’ve lost and support those who are currently struggling,” Pantanetti said.
He added that this is the first time they’ve done a walk like this.
“In the past we’ve had events in the Park to raise awareness but this year we wanted to do something special to bring more awareness to it and to bring the community together. We want to let people know that if you’re having those thoughts there are supports you can reach out to and that people do care about you.”
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