VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — It was a morning of hope in Virginia Beach on Saturday as thousands gathered at Mount Trashmore to raise awareness about depression and suicide.

WAVY TV 10 and FOX 43 are proud media sponsors of the annual walk.

Meteorologist Jeremy Wheeler and Anchor Tom Schaad spoke to the crowd at the event and shared their experiences.

You could see lots of ribbons in the sea of people, each representing a person who died from Suicide.

Speaking at Saturday’s event, Capt. Chad Vincelette with the U.S. Navy said, “Over the last few years the navy has seen a significant spike in suicides. And in 2017, the number jumped to 53% from 2016 and the trend continues.”

After the people shared their stories, they continued on with a walk. Licensed councilors were also available for anyone who wanted to speak with them.

Virginia Beach School Board member Jessica Owens told 10 On Your Side, “I worked in child welfare in Virginia Beach for over ten years and one of the Children I worked with as a young person took his life and had experiences with depression.”

All of the money raised for the event will stay in Hampton Roads.