We’re gathered today around a Hope Garden. With this effort of bringing the community to together to put our hands in the soil, place the bulbs, wait patiently for growth, and tend the blooms, we recognize the effort it takes to live with a mental condition. By speaking frankly about mental health, we break down the stigma that holds people back from seeking support. When the community comes together and talks about mental health, hope blooms. These yellow tulips are a sign of our commitment to reducing stigma.
Every year, tulips go in the cold, dark ground all winter in order to beautifully bloom in the light of spring, representing that there is always hope. It's a reminder that, like these tulips, we can weather the storms of life and emerge stronger on the other side. Just as we care for the tulips, we should nurture and support each other and ourselves. Yellow tulip bulbs need to be planted close together. Just like us -- we all need community.
We want to help others realize that even in the darkest places, hope is always there, and suicide should never be an option. We are fiercely dedicated to helping people know that there are ways to get help, that people are there for them and that circumstances can and will change for the better.
The Yellow Tulip Project encourages communities across the country to plant Hope Gardens. Their core mission is to smash stigma associated with mental illness and to build community to remind people that there is help and hope for those living with mental health conditions. The Yellow Tulip Project tells us, “Let’s Talk. A lot. Make Change. Shout, Strong. Be There. We’re Here.”
Thank you to Emerson Health for supporting our efforts to build this Hope Garden. This is part of a regional effort that includes several community organizations coming together to help and support individuals and families living with mental health conditions. These organizations include Acton Boxborough United Way, NAMI Central Middlesex, AB Cares, Danny’s Place, Carlisle School Committee, Town of Westford and Town of Bedford, Town of Concord and the Town of Carlisle.
On October 28th, 2024, a Hope Gargen was planted. Click on the link to watch the video! 