Participants in the 2023 Homeless Persons Memorial Day vigil begin to gather for the two-block walk to the local fire station and back. Alfred Sanchez, left, leads the silent vigil. Courtesy photo

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - National Homeless Persons Memorial Day is observed annually on Dec. 21, which is also the winter solstice and the shortest day of the year. This day is set aside to remember and honor individuals who have died while experiencing homelessness.

The National Coalition for the Homeless, the National HealthCare for the Homeless Council and the National Consumer Advisory Board encourage communities to hold events and ceremonies to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives.

The vigil serves as a tragic reminder that homelessness is a matter of life or death. The first National Homeless Persons Memorial Day was commemorated in 1990.

Alfred Sanchez, also known as Snack Man, a Citrus Heights advocate for homeless residents, will lead another Homeless Persons Memorial Day vigil at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21. Those who would like to join the vigil are invited to meet at Adalberto’s Restaurant, 6171 Greenback Lane for the short two-block silent walk to the local fire station and back.

Contact Sanchez for more information at 916-517-6207.