Community Paint Event assists with mental health mural (WXOW)

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WXOW) – La Crosse’s Family and Children’s Center and the La Crosse area Suicide Prevention Initiative joined forces on La Crosse’s Northside Saturday.

A community paint party was held at the Family and Children’s Center at 811 Monitor Street where pieces of a new mural were being painted.

Eventually these pieces will be added to the outside of the Family and Children’s Center. The mural will symbolize suicide prevention with a water lily and the murky conditions it has to go through before it blooms. The mural also includes a person who has been struggling and is being comforted by another person. It will also include a sun with encouraging quotes throughout the mural.

Renowned artist Kristy McCarthy who is assisting with the mural said the meaning of the mural hits home for her.

“Suicide is a big issue and it’s also an issue that is very near and dear to me and Melissa’s heart. So we always have thought there should be some way for us to collaborate to raise awareness about suicide prevention and hopefully bring a piece of artwork that does more than beautify the community, but also does something to help people who might be going through something difficult,” she said.

Story originally aired on WXOW on October 26, 2024.

LA CROSSE (WKBT) — A La Crosse nonprofit raised awareness about suicide prevention.

On Saturday, the La Crosse Area Suicide Prevention Initiative hosted a community paint party at the La Crosse Family and Children’s Center.

This event celebrates its 20th anniversary and features the creation of a mental health mural with assistance from a New York-based artist.

Karlene Buckmiseer said the mural will bring something unique to the community.

“I think a mural is a great idea because it’s visible to anyone who might be traveling by. The message is very unique, and the fact that each idea in the mural is symbolic,” said Buckmiseer, a participant.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988.

Story originally aired on WKBT on October 26, 2024.