SILVER CREEK – Silver Creek Central School recently donated to the Chautauqua County Suicide Prevention Alliance to assist the alliance in their efforts to raise awareness of suicide prevention and the support services available in the area.

Coming together as a school, staff at Silver Creek Central School use a long tradition and fundraising to donate in a variety of ways. Staff proclaim that a day of every week is a casual day where they collect and donate money to wear casual clothes in place of professional work attire.

“A lot of us end up wearing Buffalo Bills clothes, but some also show Black Knight pride by wearing school colors.” said Shannon Karcz, college secretary and Casual Day coordinator. “This Black Knight pride encompasses the idea of ​​giving to others. As a school we are aware of the mental health needs of the community and often the money goes to a family in need of financial support.

This laid-back day took place on September 10, 2021, during Suicide Prevention Month. Staff decided to use the money collected and donate it to the Chautauqua County Suicide Prevention Alliance.

“It was really special to open this donation because it was unexpected and opened on Tuesday Giving” said Carri Raynor, coordinator of the alliance. “These acts of generosity embody the mission of the alliance and contribute to efforts that support families who survive loss. There are many ways to make a difference in our community and we thank Silver Creek Central for doing its part. We know that stigma is a barrier for many, and one way to reduce fear is to normalize seeking help by having authentic conversations about mental health. Contact your relatives, friends and neighbors and ask them how they are doing. There are many resources in our community that can be healing and hopeful and we encourage everyone to check on themselves and others.

People struggling with the loss of a loved one or suicide can attend a local support group every second and fourth Tuesday of each month. It is held at the Chautauqua Center in Jamestown from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. .

Those facing a crisis can contact the 24/7 Chautauqua County Crisis Hotline at 1-800-724-0461, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1- 800-273-8255 or the crisis text line by texting HOME at 741741.