DUNNVILLE—The community is once again invited to show their support for those struggling with their mental health at the annual Walk for Suicide Prevention on September 10, 2023 in Dunnville.
While the first world Suicide Prevention Day started in 2002, it didn’t officially launch locally until 2017 when True Experience, with the help of community members, coordinated its first annual recognition day. The “Igniting Hope” event was held at Central Park in Dunnville and over 150 participants were in attendance.
Since then, the community gathers every September 10 to put on their bright yellow shirts and walk the streets of Dunnville to raise awareness about suicide.
“Residents come out of their homes and wave, others inquire about what’s going on, and some even join the walkers, until everyone gathers at Central Park,” explains the True Experience website. “After a barbecue and a connection period, personal stories and lived experiences are disclosed and the effects of suicide and how it impacts lives are shared. The evening ends with a candle lighting ceremony to commemorate those who have taken their own lives.”
This year the walk will start at 6 p.m. at True Experience’s facility at 201 Forest St. E., Dunnville.
Participants are encouraged to wear yellow t-shirts to enhance their visibility in the community as they walk across town to Central Park for the gathering. The candle lighting ceremony begins at 7:45 p.m. with candles expected to light across the world at 8 p.m.
For more information, visit trueexperience.ca/suicide-prevention-day.php, call 905-774-6165, or email sharon@trueexperience.ca.
“The evening is uplifting, supportive, and full of compassion.”
