Bucks Co. To Hold Virtual Suicide Prevention Event Sunday

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — Bucks County’s spring #HoldOnYouMatter Walk for suicide prevention has been canceled this year, but organizers are going ahead with a virtual celebration this Sunday at 6 p.m.

The event, which will be on livestream, will feature performances and speakers. It will be carried via Facebook live at https://www.facebook.com/buckscountyhoym/

"Throughout the ongoing shutdown of social and business activities prompted by COVID-19, Bucks County’s Suicide Prevention Task Force has challenged community members to post messages of encouragement to others, to share clips of themselves beating the boredom during the physical isolation, or creating something else, verbal or visual, to inspire hope," according to information from the county.

Virtual fundraising teams have been assembled to help continue support for awareness, prevention, and intervention efforts to combat suicide. Since the inception of the #HoldOnYouMatter walks six years ago, more than $275,000 has been raised for such efforts, including about $75,000 in 2019 alone, according to data from the county.

“The coronavirus will not stop us from having hope, nor will it keep us apart,” said Task Force Coordinator Kyle Esposito. “Our community is strong, generous and united. Throughout the month of April we’ve encouraged the heroes on the front lines, and those staying physically distanced to support them. Let’s encourage one another and get through this together!”

For more information about the virtual event or to donate, visit www.holdonyoumatter.com.

Organizers expect to resume the semi-annual walks in the fall. The Upper Bucks #HoldOnYouMatter walk is typically held at the Upper Bucks campus of Bucks County Community College.