If the holiday season is trying and sad for you, perhaps you’re struggling with the loss of a loved one, or a job and need some help navigating, some local organizations are partnering to help you and others in need of guidance.
Hearts Together for the Holidays will be hosted on Dec. 11 at Peace Valley Inns Emerald Room, hosted by Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention, Town of Peace River and Peace River Family and Community Support Services.
Hearts Together for the Holidays will start at 6 p.m. and run until 9 p.m.
“This event is a local gathering for those in our community struggling with season for any reason,” says Peace River FCSS programmer Tamara Brunham.
“Whether you are lonely, sad, grieving the loss of a loved one, dealing with family or friend issues, navigating the loss of a job, or anything else that has you feeling low this holiday season, we are encouraging people to join us to not be alone in their feelings.”
The evening will feature support, reflection and connection through speakers, resources, food and drink.
“The holiday season can be tough for some people, we wanted to provide an evening of community, resources, and spread a message of hope,” says Brunham.
“Casey Szmata is going to share her story; Priscilla Lalonde will be discussing the Cycles of Grief, I will be talking about Self Care, and Trevor Lusby will be talking about Mental Health.”
The event is free for anyone to attend and open to the public. Brunham says anyone and everyone is urged to attend.
“Always find a Reason to Smile is generously donating to offer a meal for the event so that no one is hungry and eating is a universal experience that helps break down barriers, encourages conversation, and creates a sense of belonging,” says Brunham.
“Meals often make the atmosphere more relaxed and social, helping participants connect on a human level.”
Participants can register through an online form https://forms.office.com/r/khdmgCaFeD or by calling (780) 624-1000. Hearts Together for the Holidays is for everyone 16 years or older, with individuals younger considered.
“We do prefer registration so we know how many to expect for food but it is not mandatory,” Brunham says.
“The holiday season is a tough time for some and in the past few years we have seen people struggle and look for supports,” she adds.
“We wanted to have something to look forward to that addresses the hard stuff while offering a safe space,” Brunham concludes.
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter