Community ceremony calls on every resident to help save lives through connection, awareness, and action

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — The Suicide Prevention Coalition of Lehigh County will host a Suicide Prevention Month Kickoff Flag Raising and Proclamation on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, from 12:00 to 12:30 p.m. at the Lehigh County Government Center. The ceremony launches a month of community events dedicated to awareness, education, and hope, and includes remarks and an official proclamation from the Lehigh County Executive Josh Siegel, an invocation, a moment of silence, and a flag raising and bell ringing ceremony. Community advocacy awards will also be presented in recognition of local leadership in suicide prevention.

Suicide remains a significant public health concern in Lehigh County. As of July 2026, the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office reported 29 deaths by suicide — more than the 8 homicides recorded during the same period. These numbers represent real people: families, friends, coworkers, classmates, and neighbors whose lives have been impacted.

Every Suicide Is Preventable

Suicide is not inevitable. Prevention works when communities come together to promote connection, reduce stigma, and ensure access to support. Most people experiencing suicidal thoughts are not seeking death, but relief from overwhelming emotional pain. Early intervention, compassionate conversations, and access to mental health resources can save lives.

One of the strongest protective factors against suicide is human connection. Every resident of Lehigh County can play a role by checking in on friends, family members, coworkers, students, veterans, and neighbors. A simple conversation can make a meaningful difference for someone who is struggling.

A Shared Community Responsibility

Suicide prevention is not solely the responsibility of mental health professionals. Schools, workplaces, faith communities, healthcare providers, first responders, community organizations, and families all

have a role to play. By learning warning signs and knowing where to connect individuals to help, everyone can become part of the safety net.

The Coalition also encourages the community to help reduce stigma. Mental health challenges are common and treatable, and asking for help should be viewed as a sign of strength. Open conversations about mental health and suicide break down the barriers that prevent people from seeking support. Most people who experience a suicidal crisis and receive support go on to recover and lead meaningful lives. Recovery is possible, help is available, and no one should have to face emotional pain alone.

How You Can Help This Suicide Prevention Month

• Learn the warning signs of suicide.
• Take a QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) or similar training. The coalition is hosting a training on 9/10/26 from 6-8pm
• Support local mental health and suicide prevention efforts.
• Share information about crisis resources and encourage help-seeking.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You do not need to be in immediate crisis to reach out — support is available for anyone concerned about themselves or a loved one.

Need Support? Call or Text 988

Event Details

What: Suicide Prevention Month Kickoff Flag Raising & Proclamation

When: Tuesday, September 1, 2026, 12:00 – 12:30 p.m.

Where: Lehigh County Government Center

Program: Remarks and an official proclamation from the Lehigh County Executive Josh Siegel, an invocation, a moment of silence, a flag raising and bell ringing ceremony, remarks from the Lehigh County Coroner, and community advocacy award presentations.

About the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Lehigh County

The Suicide Prevention Coalition of Lehigh County, overseen by Pinebrook Family Answers, brings together community members, organizations, and partners to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and connect individuals to life-saving resources. Learn more at SuicidePreventionLC.com or follow @SuicidePreventionLC on Facebook.

 

Information provided to TVL by:
Maggie Prorok