For Immediate Release

Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Contact: Jessica Sacco
Phone: 978-769-5193
Email: [email protected]

*Media Advisory* Natick Police Invite Community to Attend Vigil for Lives Lost to Addiction

NATICK — Chief James Hicks and the Natick Police Department invite residents to attend a Community Vigil this weekend to remember those who have lost their lives to addiction.

“We know the holidays can be an especially difficult time for some of our residents,” Chief Hicks said. “Together we will honor the lives of our loved ones that were lost to drug or alcohol addiction. Those struggling with addiction should know they are not alone in this fight. The Natick Police Department is committed to assisting all those in need get the assistance they require to recover.”

WHAT

The vigil will begin with a candlelit walk around the Natick Common to remember the lives lost and to affirm a commitment among citizens to work toward healing.

Lt. Cara Rossi-Cafarelli will represent the Natick Police Department and speak briefly about the support the community has from police in combating the state’s opioid epidemic.

“Our focus is getting people the help they need, as we know arresting our way out of this problem will not be successful,” Lt. Rossi-Cafarelli said. “We do not discriminate or judge and we understand that this disease can affect anyone. We are here to support and guide our residents.”

As part of the ceremony, there will be music, testimonies, inspirational speeches and an interfaith prayer led by the Natick clergy. Light refreshments will be served from 8-8:30 p.m.

The evening is sponsored by the Natick Interfaith Clergy, Natick Together for Youth, SPARK Kindness and the Natick Public Schools.

For more information, contact Katie Sugarman of Natick Together for Youth at 508-647-6623.

WHEN

Sunday, Dec. 20 from 7-8 p.m.

WHERE

First Congregational Church, 2 East Central St.

WHO

• Lt. Cara Rossi-Cafarelli, Natick Police Department
• Matt Ganem, poet in recovery
• Christine Guthery, President of SPARK Kindness
• Pastor Victoria Guest, First Congregational Church
• Representatives of the Natick Interfaith Clergy
• Katie Sugarman, Executive Director of Natick Together for Youth.

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