Student Assembly hosts cookout to promote suicide awareness

Junior Kayla Gastineau serves chips from Chipolte during Thursday's cookout.

Jacob Harpring

Junior Kayla Gastineau serves chips from Chipolte during Thursday’s cookout.

Jacob Harpring, Writer

Student Assembly hosted a free lunch on Thursday during 5A and 5B to raise awareness of suicide prevention. The event, held in the bus parking lot, consisted of chips and salsa, pizza, hot dogs, hamburgers and smoothies – all generously donated by local restaurants.

There also were several counselors and mental health professionals from the community who educated students on suicide prevention.

The lunch was packed with good food, fun music, and a crowd of content students. The community professionals spoke with students and gave out free goodies, such as ribbons, while quizzing students on suicide prevention.The event was well received by the students who appreciated the lively atmosphere as well as the meaningful cause.

“There was lots of food and music, and I am wearing my ribbon now. It makes people aware that I care,” senior Brittney Townsend said.

The event appeared to be successful in providing a fun environment and delivering a powerful message.