CANTON – The St. Lawrence County Suicide Awareness Coalition, in recognition of September’s National Suicide Awareness Month sponsored its first “Chalk the Walk” event Sept. 16-22.

Chalked sidewalk art was submitted by numerous community organizations, businesses, area schools, and individuals. Their messages of hope were prominently displayed throughout St. Lawrence County, drawing awareness and prevention of suicide while reducing the stigma associated with mental illness.

Winning designs include Best Image - Molly Zuhlsdorf, a 5th grade student at Canton Middle School; Best Message - Employees at Liberty Gas; and Most Creative - “Trailer Chalk Girls”

“The Coalition was overwhelmed by the amount of community involvement and support for our 1st Chalk the Walk. Thank you all for participating and spreading messages of hope and helping us work to reduce stigma associated with mental illness. Thank you to the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators for supporting our efforts proclaiming September as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Please continue to spread all of your wonderful messages of hope,” said St. Lawrence County Suicide Awareness Coalition’s Chair Lindsay Best.

Chalk the Walk artwork, and messages of hope, can be viewed on the St. Lawrence County Suicide Awareness Coalition’s Facebook page using the tag #stlcyouarenotalone.

The St. Lawrence County Suicide Awareness Coalition works to cultivate a resilient community by providing education, training, services and support in order to reduce the number of deaths by suicide in St. Lawrence County. Through addressing and reducing stigma, via education and awareness activities, the Coalition has a vision that the St. Lawrence County community is well educated, trained and service rich for mental health, leading to zero suicides.

If you, or someone you know, needs emotional support or help, call 988. 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. 988 allows individuals to call, chat, or text.

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Molly Zuhlsdorf, a 5th grader at the McKenney Middle School in Canton, is shown with her winning chalk creation. Submitted Photo.