LAC LA BICHE - A colourful addition to Mental Health Week activities happening across the region from May 2-8 was the Chalk the Walk afternoon at McArthur Park in Lac La Biche last Wednesday.
Hosted by the local Successful Families Successful Kids Project in partnership with Lac La Biche County's FCSS and regional organizations, the afternoon outdoor event drew students from local schools and community members to a collection of booths and informative displays on a wide range of social well-being topics. Visitors were encouraged to write encouraging messages and images on the park walkway with the provided chalk. Face paint and sticker tattoos also carried positive messages. Popsicles, juice and hotdogs were handed out to those who attended. Also on hand were information materials and promotional items detailing services and programs to help with mental health and well-being issues in the region.
The overall object of the afternoon was to bring more awareness to the many resources available in the region for residents of all ages who may need assistance.
"Eight different local agencies set up booths in the park and provided mental health related activities to the many people who attended. Local schools walked down to take part in the activities and also chalked up the walks and gazebo area with positive and inspirational messages," said La La Biche County FCSS Community Outreach Worker Christine Martin, calling this year's edition of the annual event, "bigger and better."
Martin estimated that approximately 400 people — mostly local students — took part in the afternoon.