Central Oregon Strong: Local photographers, businesses organize free event for Silver Rail families
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Central Oregon photographers and business owners are coming together to offer Silver Rail Elementary families an afternoon of connection, comfort, and moments of joy following the October 15th tragedy.
The community event will begin at 2:00 p.m. November 7th at Alpenglow Park in Bend. It will feature complimentary family portrait sessions for Silver Rail families, along with coffee, muffins, treats, sensory toys, and stuffed animals donated by local businesses.
The idea began with Bend native and photographer Kylla Miller, who wanted to find a practical way to use her work to support families during an unimaginably difficult time.
“Our goal is really just to love on the Silver Rail families and for them to feel seen and cared for,” Miller said. “We can feel helpless when something like this takes place.”
Miller said she also learned the tragedy occurred on the day Silver Rail students had school pictures scheduled to be taken. She hopes the event will allow families to document meaningful memories together while feeling the support of their community.
What began as Miller’s offer to take photographs became much larger as other Central Oregon residents and businesses asked how they could help.
“It quickly grew from something little I thought I could do to this beautiful event, just by the community offering to step up, which was really sweet,” Miller said.
Nine photographers have committed to the event, with additional photographers on standby. Around 50 Silver Rail families have already expressed interest, and organizers hope to reach even more before November 7th.
Families may register ahead of time, but registration is not required. If you do want to RSVP, you can sign up on the event’s Google Form. Covered tents and heaters will also be available if the weather turns cold or wet.
Although the complimentary portraits are reserved for Silver Rail families, the wider community is welcome and encouraged to attend.
Miller said she hopes the gathering gives families whatever they may need in the moment — whether that is a photograph, a hug, someone to cry with, or an opportunity to experience joy.
“As a community, we’re going to be there for each other,” Miller said. “I love that about being in Bend. I love being a resident here, that we do come together.”
