Council supports Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

Published on 11 October 2024

West Wimmera Shire Council is marking Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month with several events and initiatives designed to support families and individuals who have experienced loss.

Council is inviting the community to participate in two special Wave of Light events and offering resources for those wishing to observe the day privately.

The Wave of Light events, in Kaniva and Edenhope, will provide an opportunity for families to light a candle in memory of loved ones lost too soon.

Attendees will have the chance to light a candle and share tributes to their little ones, offering a supportive environment for remembrance.

Tea, coffee, and light refreshments will be served, and Council’s Perinatal Emotional Health Worker Adrienne Caldow, will be present at both events for support.

The events will be at the Kaniva Shire Hall supper room on October 28 at 7pm, and the Edenhope and District Community Centre on October 29 at 7pm.

October is International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and Council aims to offer safe spaces for healing and connection.

For those unable to attend the events, LED candles will be available at both Edenhope and Kaniva customer service centres, from October 15.

These candles are for anyone wishing to privately participate in the Wave of Light from home.

Council Chief Executive Officer David Bezuidenhout said Council was committed to supporting our communities.

“These events will offer a safe, supportive space for people to reflect and remember,” he said.

“We are proud to offer these events and resources as part of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, and we hope they provide comfort to those who need it.”

As part of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, West Wimmera Shire Council also invites community members to share their personal tributes and photos of loved ones.

These contributions will be included in a special summary at the end of the month to honor the memories of those lost.

If you would like to share a tribute, please email it to communications@westwimmera.vic.gov.au or send it via inbox on our Facebook page.

Anyone wanting more information can contact Adrienne Caldow, Perinatal Emotional Health Worker, on 0418 818 127