Annual Candlelight Vigil to Honor Lives Lost to Suicide and Overdose
MOUNT MORRIS, N.Y., Aug. 26, 2026 — The Livingston County Suicide Prevention Task Force, Genesee Valley Health Partnership, and CASA-Trinity, Inc. will host a candlelight vigil at Al Lorenz Park in Mount Morris on Thursday, Sept. 10, at 6:30 p.m. to honor and remember the lives lost to suicide and overdose.
The evening of hope, reflection and remembrance will take place inside the County park at pavilion #4. Organizers say the community and all those grieving loved ones lost to suicide or overdose are welcome to attend the annual gathering, which is now entering its 12th year. The event will feature guest speakers, personal stories, and the lighting of candles in remembrance and hope.
For Suicide Prevention Task Force Chairperson Lynne Mignemi, saving lives is a team effort. She said that joining together toward a common goal provides a powerful platform for public healing and effective suicide prevention across the County.
“The vigil has become a source of healing and hope for all who attend,” said Mignemi, who also serves as the County’s Probation director. “I encourage the community to attend this moving event either in person at beautiful Al Lorenz Park or via Facebook live stream. The vigil has become a community connection where people from all disciplines and backgrounds come together to share stories, memories and to break through the stigma that makes people feel alone. Now more than ever, combatting individual and societal loneliness to improve mental and physical wellness is and should be a priority. Join us for an evening of hope and inspiration. All are welcome.”
For those unable to attend in person, the Suicide Prevention Task Force will offer a livestream through its Facebook page. Organizers invite residents who are unable to attend to turn on their porch lights at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 10, to show support and remember those lost.
The gathering coincides with two related global events, International Overdose Day on Aug. 31 and World Suicide Prevention Day on Sept. 10. Livingston County recognizes September as National Suicide Prevention Month, urging all residents to play a role in suicide prevention. Knowing the signs for suicide, using evidence-based techniques to communicate with someone in crisis, and utilizing local crisis resources are all effective strategies for saving lives.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a free and confidential service for anyone facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or needing someone to talk to. Trained counselors are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year offering judgement-free, one-on-one assistance.
Livingston County offers several resources to help residents considering suicide, struggling with mental health, or simply in need of help. Livingston County Mental Health Services is a County-operated clinic licensed by the New York State Office of Mental Health. It provides teletherapy and in-person access to medication management providers, therapists, social workers and counselors for children and adults who encounter mental health issues such as stress, significant life-changing events, trauma and more.
Credible Mind is an online platform that helps residents assess their mental health needs. It also offers personalized reports and directs users to local services, educational resources, and crisis supports. Residents can access the tool at https://livingstoncounty.crediblemind.com/.
Lock and Talk Livingston is a County-wide suicide prevention program aimed at stopping self-harm by limiting access to firearms, medications, and other potentially dangerous items during a mental health crisis. The program provides gun owners and retailers with evidence-based suicide awareness and prevention training, free safety devices such as gun and medication locks, and disposal pouches for unused medications in the home. Email info@gvhp.org for more information.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. The Lifeline provides confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Support is also available via live chat.
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is home to more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.
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