Darkness into Light 2025 charity walk raises €30,000 for CHS Helpline

More than 500 people in Belgium walked into the dawn on 10 May to raise €30,000 for the CHS Helpline, which provides mental health support to English speakers across the country.

Most of the participants in the suicide prevention initiative gathered in Brussels’ Cinquantenaire park for the 5km walk.

In the darkness, hundreds of flickering night-lights illuminated their way as they moved forward in quiet solidarity.

Volunteers had created a stunning light display near the park entrance that spelled out the word Hope — and its French equivalent, Espérance—as a tribute to those finding their way through darkness.

Walkers in Belgium were among thousands taking part in the global action launched by Irish charity Pieta in 2009 to show solidarity and hope for people affected by suicide and self-harm.

For 2025, Darkness into Light Belgium partnered with the 24/7 English-language helpline, which is operated by the Community Help Service (CHS).

The free service costs at least €100 a day to run with trained volunteer staff receiving thousands of calls each year.

Praising the charity and the walkers for their efforts, CHS president Jeremy Jennings said: “The Helpline is a vital service, and these funds will help ensure we can continue being there when people need us most.”

The Helpline serves as a lifeline for callers facing stress, anxiety, loneliness, burnout, addictions and all too often, suicidal thoughts. On average, at least one call a day is from someone at risk of suicide, says CHS.

The mental health centre also thanked sponsors and partners who gave generously to the Darkness into Light campaign, including Sidley’s Brussels office, Acumen Public Affairs and ZN Consulting.

CHS Helpline: 02 648 40 14