Halton Hills Library - Acton Branch, via Google Maps
The Halton Suicide Prevention Coalition will launch its annual Garden of Hope in Acton this week as part of World Suicide Prevention Day.
The inspirational community rock garden will be unveiled at the Halton Hills Public Library Acton Branch and features rocks painted with messages and images of hope.
“Living in hope is such an important part of preventing suicide,” says Melanie McGregor, Chair of the Halton Suicide Prevention Coalition. “We want to spread positive, uplifting messages throughout the community – you never know who needs to get that support and encouragement. Hope can be anywhere, and the Garden is one more place for it.”
The Garden of Hope is placed at a different location in the community each year. Existing gardens can be found at the Oakville Public Library Glen Abbey Branch, Canadian Mental Health Association Halton in Oakville, Milton Public Library Beaty Branch, and the Halton Hills Public Library and Cultural Centre in Georgetown.
Each garden includes signage recognizing World Suicide Prevention Day and provides a link for people seeking support for themselves or a loved one.
“Libraries are places where everyone should feel welcome, supported, and connected,” says Beverley King, Chief Librarian & CEO at Halton Hills Public Library. “We’re honoured to partner with the Halton Suicide Prevention Coalition to bring the Garden of Hope to our Acton Branch and help create a space where messages of hope can inspire, comfort, and remind people that they are not alone.”
World Suicide Prevention Day takes place annually on September 10th. This year’s theme is “Changing the Narrative,” focusing on open and honest discussions about suicide to break down barriers, raise awareness and create stronger cultures of understanding and support.
Speakers at the launch will include Halton Hills Mayor Ann Lawlor, mental health advocate and Capillary Wave Community Founder Nelson Borges, and mental health activist and Unsinkable Youth Program Manager Maria Estrada. Borges and Estrada will discuss support and awareness for men and youth, respectively, which the coalition says will be focus areas in the coming year.
The Garden of Hope launch and speakers begin at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 10th, at the Halton Hills Public Library Acton Branch, located at 17 River Street in Acton. Rock painting, information and displays will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
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