‘Chalk the Walk’ Brings Suicide Prevention Week Awareness to Southeast Boise High School

SOUTHEAST BOISE, Idaho — Sidewalks outside of Timberline High School got a splash of color this week as students teamed up to draw inspirational chalk messages in an effort to spread mental health and student suicide awareness.

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The school, partnered with BroncoBOLD, a Boise State student athlete led mental health initiative, to ‘Chalk the Walk’ during Suicide Prevention Week.

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"We need a reminder to get rid of the stigma around it because there is such a negative stigma," said Jessica Newkirk, an intern with Timberline Hope Squad, a national suicide prevention program in schools.

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Newkirk said she was drawn to the squad because of her own challenges.

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"When I was younger I struggled with my mental health and I know so many people struggle and people don't advocate for it that much and it's important for me to spread awareness," she said.

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The citywide event took place around 31 Treasure Valley, and the Hope Squad aims to leave a positive mark on their peers, even after the chalk fades.

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"Just walking outside and seeing all the positive messages is really important, kind of brightens everyone's day," Janes said.

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"You see the bright colors and its positive messages, and sometimes that can be the most important part of someone's day, seeing something positive," Newkirk said.

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Timberline High School and Boise State will each host events throughout the week.

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Originally published at https://www.kivitv.com/southeast-boise/chalk-the-walk-brings-suicide-prevention-week-awareness-to-southeast-boise-high-school