Finding Peace After Losing the Ones We Love

The Hamden Police Department reports that, between 1971 and 2023, 58 people have been victims of homicide. It is understandable when the heartbreak of losing a young relative or friend to homicide leads survivors to seek justice and consequences for the perpetrators. The courage it takes, instead, to focus on peace and healing is nothing short of inspiring.

This is just what a local band of parents and friends is doing. People/Parents Reunited Over Untimely Death (P.R.O.U.D.) have announced plans for a healing garden as a place of sanctuary and respite for family and friends who have lost young people to homicide. The garden is modeled on a similar garden in New Haven, but, based on that experience, the group is emphasizing planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers that are most likely to thrive in Eli Whitney Park. In January 2023, the group was certified as a nonprofit 501-c3 organization. Then in May, Mayor Lauren Garrett and the Legislative Council authorized the use of town-owned Eli Whitney Park at 1111 Whitney Avenue for this cause. Now your contribution will be matched by Sustainable CT to help put beautiful natives into the park.

https://www.patronicity.com/project/hamden_homicide_memorial_botanical_garden_of_healing#!/