With September marking World Suicide Prevention Month and Sept. 10 designated as World Suicide Prevention Day, a local committee is organising a day-long community event aimed at raising awareness and improving access to supports in Saint John.
Event aims to connect residents with supports
Saint John Suicide Prevention is staging the “Stomp Out Stigma” walk and wellness fair on Sept. 26 at HMCS Brunswicker on Navy Way. The committee says the event will bring together a range of local organisations that provide mental-health and wellness services to the region.
The fair is intended both to destigmatize conversations about suicide and to make it easier for people to find information and immediate help where they live. Organisers emphasise that the event is open to everyone — people with lived experience, family members, health-care providers and community partners.
Where to find help, and when
- Event: Stomp Out Stigma walk and wellness fair
- Date: Sept. 26
- Location: HMCS Brunswicker, Navy Way, Saint John
- Information: SJSuicidePrevention.ca and 211
- Immediate crisis support: Suicide Crisis Helpline — 988 (24 hours, every day)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organiser | Saint John Suicide Prevention |
| Date | Sept. 26 |
| Location | HMCS Brunswicker, Navy Way |
| Website / info line | SJSuicidePrevention.ca / 211 |
| Crisis line | 988 — 24/7 |
"988 provides support 24 hours a day and 365 days of the year."
Local media coverage ahead of the event included an interview with Brandi McHarg, chair of the Saint John Suicide Prevention committee, who discussed the purpose of the walk and the range of local resources available. Organisers say the fair will host representatives from mental-health services, counselling providers, peer-support groups and other community wellness programs.
Local context and potential impact
Saint John and the wider province of New Brunswick have been working to expand mental-health supports and to make crisis resources more visible. Events such as Stomp Out Stigma serve two practical goals: they provide immediate information to people who might be struggling, and they foster community conversations that can reduce shame around seeking help.
Organisers stress that the walk is not only for those in crisis but also for friends, family and neighbours who want to learn how to support someone at risk. The presence of multiple service providers in one place makes it easier for residents to find referrals and ask questions in person.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to visit the event website for updates, to check programming and to learn which organisations will have tables at the fair. People who need immediate assistance and cannot attend can call 988 or dial 211 to be connected to local services.
The walk and fair are one of several activities across Canada during World Suicide Prevention Month aimed at increasing awareness and lifesaving connections. For many in Saint John, the event will be an opportunity to both remember those lost and learn concrete ways to help those who are struggling now.
