You’re not alone and help is available.
That’s one message the lighting of the Flame of Hope brings to West Nipissing each year on World Suicide Prevention Day.
Tina Bouffard with the Suicide Prevention Task Force says it represents a beacon of hope.
“For people who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide, maybe thoughts of loneliness, depression or whatever it may be,” she says. “We also wanted it as a symbol of hope for families who may have lost somebody.”
Tuesday’s ninth annual event at Minnehaha Bay included drumming and a diverse group of guest speakers.
“It’s very important that we do have diversity because suicide touches all of us,” Bouffard says. “It doesn’t matter about gender, age, culture or backgrounds. It affects everybody.”
Those in need can contact the Crisis Intervention Centre at the West Nipissing General Hospital at 705-753-3110 (ext 288) and/or the Alliance Centre at 705-753-2271.
Along with the Flame of Hope ceremony, the task force also undertakes an annual Christmas card writing campaign to deliver to area seniors.
