(ABC 6 News) – An Oktoberfest event in The Med City brought people together to raise money for local mental health resources after a suicide awareness walk.
The sixth annual Oktoberfest for Suicide Prevention followed a suicide awareness walk at Soldier’s Field Park. Organizers said the event is meant to raise money for local mental health resources.
People donated by buying T-shirts and taking part in contests including a raffle. Organizers said the community donated more than 400 raffle prizes this year.
Many of the prizes came from local businesses and from families of people who lost loved ones to suicide. Organizer Joan Kopacz said holding the Oktoberfest right after the walk gives people a different way to experience community.
“You can combine that feeling of support, but you can also then celebrate life and joy,” explained Kopacz.
The event featured music, food, bouncy houses, and more. Organizers said the event’s continued success in its sixth year shows how many people in the community have been affected by suicide and mental health struggles and are looking for support.
If you or a loved one are in need of emotional support, you can call the national mental health and suicide hotline by dialing 988.
