[Last updated October 16, 2026 at 9:15 am. Photo credit: African Feminism]
In the wake of the tragedy at Silver Rail Elementary, our Central Oregon community is trying to find its way to wrap around the families of those who have been most impacted. These coming days and weeks will be just the beginning in tending to our collective grief and trauma.
Many are turning inward and holding their loved ones close. Others are moving toward collective care. This will be an evolving list of ways for us to move together as a community. I welcome updates and additions, and will try to add what I can in real time.
MUTUAL AID
These are GoFundMe and Meal Trains to support families who lost loved ones that are known so far. I welcome folks to share additional mutual aid opportunities as they come out.
Rhoan Summer’s Family
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Deschutes County Health Services
Deschutes County Health Services, St. Charles Health System, and Bend-La Pine Schools are partnering to host free, walk-in community support events on Friday, October 16. Free and open to all students, families, staff, and community members.
| Deschutes Public Library – Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini St., Bend | 10 am to 3 pm Friday, October 16 (Drop-in format) |
| Larkspur Community Center, 1600 SE Reed Market Rd., Bend | 4 am to 7 pm Friday, October 16 (Drop-in format) |
COPA (Central Oregon Pediatric Associates)
COPA’s Bend and Redmond clinics will be open both Saturday October17 and Sunday October 18th from 9 am – 3 pm. Call 541-389-6313.
RESOURCES
Take some time to learn from the folks who are trained for this moment.
COPA Guide
COPA Video – Watch news segment on how to talk with your kids after yesterday’s tragedy from COPA with Dr. Logan Clausen and Dr. Ashley Niemeyer. Has tips for parents on how to talk with kids about what happened at Silver Rail Elementary, what reactions to expect, and when to reach out for help. Find some time to watch and find a quiet moment to check in with your child. Skip to 30:35 (the segment runs to 35:22)
Sandy Hook Promise – Resources for victims and survivors of school gun violence
COMMUNITY CARE
The following community partners are providing offerings of comfort and community care and connection:
50501 Central Oregon – Silent candlelight vigil on Peace Corner on Friday, October 16, 7 pm – 8 pm to support collective grieving
Cambria Hotel Bend- Mt Bachelor – free lodging for visiting family members and friends of those affected
Elite Teepees Bend – offering teepees to community for a cozy and safe place to sleep our hang out with family and friends
High Desert Museum – Free Admission on Friday, October 16
Circuit Gym in Bend – Free day passes for everyone on Friday, October 16. The Circuit is located at 63051 NE Corporate Pl. See this Instagram post for details.
Aqua Terra Health – Free community acupuncture and a safe space to gather, connect, and support one another. Details on this Instagram post. Free Community Acupuncture Hours:
- Friday, October 16 | 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
- Saturday, October 17 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Tea & Art Lounge – Free Art Activities for Kids on Friday, October 16, 12 pm to 2 pm. Ken’s Pizza is offering a free pizza buffet at lunch time at the Tea Lounge
Hearts Unknown Education – Open today from 12 – 3 pm for kids and teens for free art, community, and El Sancho tacos
Play Theory Cafe – free admission or pay what you can on Friday, October 16th
Dakota’s Brick Shop – Friday October 16 though the weekend, offering open Lego play area with no purchase expected
Two Suns Art Studio + Makerspace – Creative materials and hands-on tools for expression for Silver Rail families
Open Arts Center – OAC will be open Friday, October 16 from 10 am – 2 pm for families and community members wanting to share space together. They’ll have food, art supplies, a cozy lounge area, music and most importantly human connection. For questions, please send a direct message on Instagram or reach out at hello@theopenartscenter.org.
Vista Mista – Free community embroidery gathering Friday, October 16 10 am – 2 pm.
Haven Coworking: Doors are open on Friday, October 16 to anyone who needs a place to gather, find comfort, or simply be surrounded by community. Children are welcome, too. Located at 001 SW Disk Dr.
Bo’s – Free meals on Friday, October 16
Blue Eyes Burgers and Fries – Free ice cream on Friday, October 16
Lucky Woodsman – Free meals to anyone directly affected on Friday, October 16th including students, families, staff, and first responders.
almadorada – Free hot cocoa and drip coffee through the weekend
