Standing Together as a Community
A Message from Canyon Behavioral Health
Dear friends and family,
My wife and I moved to Bend in 2018, and one of the things that stood out to us immediately was how welcoming, accepting, and supportive this community was. Our neighbors were always there to offer their time, kindness, and help when we needed it. The people of Bend made our transition to Central Oregon so easy and memorable, and we have been grateful ever since to call this community home.
Today is a dark and heartbreaking day for Central Oregon. Words cannot begin to express the pain, fear, and loss that so many in our community are experiencing. Our hearts are with everyone affected by this tragedy, including the students, families, staff, first responders, and all those who are hurting during this incredibly difficult time.
At Canyon Behavioral Health, we want you to know that we stand with you and your family. If you or someone you love needs additional support, someone to listen, or help navigating the emotions and uncertainty of the days ahead, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team. You are not alone, and we are here to help in any way we can.
One of the things that makes Bend so special is the way we come together, care for one another, and offer compassion when it is needed most. Even in the darkest moments, we hope to continue carrying forward the love, acceptance, and sense of community that make us all proud to call Central Oregon home.
With care and heartfelt support,
Rich Akers
Canyon Behavioral Health
Community Support & Resources
In the wake of this tragedy, organizations, local businesses, and community members throughout Central Oregon have come together to offer support.
Whether you are looking for someone to talk to, a safe place to gather, support for your children, or simply a meal, the following resources are available to help our community through this difficult time.
Emotional Support & Community Gatherings
Deschutes Public Library – Community Support & Healing Gathering
Friday, October 16 | 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Central Library
61956 SE Santorini St., Bend, OR
This free, drop-in gathering offers a supportive environment for students, families, staff, and community members. Trained peers and professionals will help participants understand emotional and physical responses to traumatic experiences and share practical ways to care for themselves and others.
Larkspur Community Center – Community Support & Healing Gathering
Friday, October 16 | 4:00–7:00 PM
1600 SE Reed Market Rd., Bend, OR
A free community gathering providing a safe space to connect, share experiences if comfortable, and receive support during this difficult time.
Trinity Lutheran
Friday, October 16 | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Trinity Lutheran has canceled school for the day and is opening its doors to anyone who needs a place to gather or additional support.
St. Francis Catholic Church
Friday, October 16 | 7:00 PM
27th Street Church, Bend
A community Mass will be held for those wishing to gather in prayer and reflection.
Resources for Parents, Children & Families
Talking with children about traumatic events can be difficult. Children and teenagers may respond differently depending on their age, experiences, and understanding of what has happened.
Deschutes Public Library has compiled resources related to gun violence and school shootings, including materials to help families navigate difficult conversations, understand emotional responses, and find age-appropriate reading materials.
Deschutes Public Library – Gun Violence & School Shootings Resources
Explore Resources for Parents, Children & Families
There is no single right way to respond to tragedy. Some children may have questions, others may become quieter or seek additional reassurance. Listening without judgment, maintaining familiar routines when possible, and allowing space for feelings can help families navigate the days ahead.
Free Meals & Food Support
Local restaurants are coming together to provide food and care for those affected.
Luckey's Woodsman
Offering free meals to anyone directly affected, including students, families, school staff, and first responders. No questions asked.
Americana
Offering free meals on Friday, October 16, to Silver Rail families, faculty, and first responders.
Bo's Restaurant
Offering free meals to anyone in the community on Friday, October 16, whether they need a meal themselves or would like to bring one to someone else.
Mimi's Bagel Deli
Offering free bagels on Friday, October 16, to those impacted by the tragedy.
Family-Friendly Activities & Supportive Spaces
For children and families, finding moments of comfort, connection, and normalcy can be especially important.
High Desert Museum
Free admission on Friday, October 16.
TEAL Tea & Art Lounge
Friday, October 16 | 9:00 AM–2:00 PM, or while supplies last.
Offering free art activities for children, along with complimentary pizza from Ken's Artisan Pizza.
Two Suns Art Studio
Partnering with Whimsy with a Purpose to provide play dough kits, art supplies, and hands-on activities to support creative expression for Silver Rail families.
Dakota's Brick Shop
Friday, October 16–Sunday, October 18.
Offering a free LEGO open-play area for anyone who needs a welcoming space to spend time. No purchase necessary.
Play Theory Cafe
Free admission on Friday, October 16.
Ways to Support Affected Families
Hawkeye & Huckleberry Community Fundraiser
Wednesday, October 21
Hawkeye & Huckleberry in Bend will be holding a fundraiser, with all proceeds going to the families of the victims.
Additional Mental Health Support
The impact of a traumatic event can reach far beyond those directly involved, affecting families, friends, classmates, educators, and the broader community. In the days and weeks that follow, it is natural to experience a range of emotions, including grief, anxiety, fear, sadness, or uncertainty. Some individuals may also notice changes in sleep, difficulty concentrating, or feeling overwhelmed.
Everyone processes difficult experiences differently, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Whether you need someone to talk to, guidance in supporting a loved one, or additional emotional support, help is available.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, a mental health crisis, or simply needs someone to talk to, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free, confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
Canyon Behavioral Health
At Canyon Behavioral Health, our hearts remain with everyone affected by this tragedy. We recognize that the emotional impact of an event like this can be difficult to navigate, and that individuals and families may need different kinds of support as they begin to process what has happened.
Our team is committed to providing compassionate, individualized behavioral health care to the Central Oregon community. Whether you are struggling with difficult emotions, concerned about a loved one, or looking for guidance on available mental health services, we encourage you to reach out.
You do not have to navigate this alone.
For questions about available services or to connect with our team, please contact:
Canyon Behavioral Health
Phone: (541) 204-2021
We are here to listen, offer guidance, and help you explore the support that may be right for you.
We Are Here for One Another
In moments like these, the strength of our community is found in the compassion we show one another.
Whether that means offering a meal, checking in on a neighbor, sitting quietly with someone who is grieving, or reaching out for support yourself, every act of kindness matters.
To the students, families, educators, first responders, and everyone affected: our hearts are with you.
With care and compassion,
The Canyon Behavioral Health Team
Community resource information compiled October 16, 2026. Event schedules and availability may change. Please confirm details directly with the organizations when possible.