Each year during the longest night of the year, December 21st, Portland community members come together to remember and honor the homeless persons who have died in the past year at the Annual Homeless Vigil. Due to our close work with the homeless population through our Healthcare for the Homeless Program, many Greater Portland Health staff were inspired to participate as we have in years past. This event not only serves as an opportunity to reflect, but also to re-dedicate ourselves to supporting those experiencing homelessness in our community. 

Speakers at the vigil included homeless advocate, Bonnie Guerette, and Chief Medical Officer at Greater Portland Health, Dr. Renee Fay-LeBlanc. Candles were then lit for each of the community members we have lost. Read more about the event here.