It’s been nearly one year since a minivan crashed into a lower-level Racette Junior High School classroom, and the community is being asked to gather to show support for those affected by the tragedy, this Friday.
On Oct. 26, 2012, the day following the crash, a candlelight vigil was held just outside the school where three of the Grade 6 students inside the classroom were pinned under the van. Megan Wolitski died from her injuries, and two other girls sustained critical injuries.
Hundreds of community members gathered in a huge showing of support, and vigil organizer Brandi Frowen is asking residents to again come together to offer their support to those who are still healing from the crash.
She explains that one of the reasons for organizing the one-year anniversary vigil is to show those affected by the crash that the community is still here for them. The families didn’t get “to see the overwhelming support that showed up” at last year’s vigil, she adds.
The vigil will offer people the opportunity to gather and continue the healing process, she says.
“It’s a long process,” says Frowen, adding, she is continually amazed by the support shown by the community.
When Frowen began organizing this year’s vigil, she put out a call for candles and volunteers. As of last week, enough candles had been collected and volunteers were not in short supply.
The vigil will take place on Oct. 25, exactly one year after the crash took place, at the same location, which is the old Glen Avon School (now Portage College). The vigil will begin at 7 p.m.
“If you can walk that would be great,” says Frowen, adding, parking is scarce in that part of town and parking will not be allowed along the street where the vigil is taking place.
The event will include some singing, a short prayer and a moment of silence. The vigil is open to the entire community.
“Come out and show your support to the families and everyone affected by the tragedy,” says Frowen.
