From Staff Reports
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and 16 Texas State Parks will be hosting hikes to shed light on this issue, which affects many veterans and their loved ones. The Veteran Suicide Awareness Ruck Hike, an annual event organized by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Veteran’s Liaison Nicole Mechler, allows families, friends and veterans to network and build a support system, as well as spread the word about veteran-specific mental health issues.
The following parks are hosting events throughout the month: Sept. 7 at 8:30 a.m. – Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site Sept. 14 from 2-4 p.m. – Swim Race at Balmorhea State Park Sept. 21 from 2-4 p.m. – Atlanta State Park Sept. 21 at 8 and 10 a.m. – Purtis Creek State Park Sept. 22 at 10 a.m. – Yoga before hiking at Dinosaur Valley State Park Sept. 28 at 9 a.m. – Abilene State Park Sept. 28 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. – Kayaking at Cooper Lake State Park If there are any questions about the events, feel free to reach out to Vetcontact@TPWD.Texas.Gov .