A Child’s Light, a Downingtown-based non-profit dedicated to expediting mental health support for children aged 2-18, will hold its first annual “Steps of Light” Walk on May 10, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at West Goshen Community Park.

Those who participate in the walk will carry tea lights, creating a powerful visual metaphor for hope and healing, and underscoring the agency’s commitment to guiding children through the darkness of mental health challenges towards a brighter future.

“I’m excited about this event as this marks a crucial milestone for A Child’s Light’s mission,” said Board Chair Harini Balachandar. “We are going to be holding tea lights throughout the walk at dusk in the park, symbolizing the path for our kids. Light symbolizes hope and healing.”

The “Steps of Light” Walk hopes to raise awareness about the pressing need for accessible mental health support for children in Chester County. The 2023 Pennsylvania Youth Survey revealed that significant mental health challenges exist among Chester County youth, highlighting the urgency of A Child’s Light’s work.

“Every step taken during this walk represents our commitment to ensuring no child in our community faces mental health challenges alone,” said Leslie Holt, executive director of A Child’s Light. “We’re calling on our community to join us in this vital mission, whether as participants, sponsors, or advocates for children’s mental well-being.”

Begun in 2019, A Child’s Light provides expedited mental health support for children and adolescents, ages 2-to-18, who have experienced severe trauma on the first step of their healing journey.

Registration details and additional information can be found at childslight.com. For more information about the “Steps of Light” Walk or to explore sponsorship opportunities, contact A Child’s Light team at [email protected].