NORRISTOWN, Pa. (September 10, 2026) — Elmwood Park Zoo and the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have partnered to bring the County’s Hope Rocks project to the Zoo, sharing messages of kindness, encouragement and support with visitors throughout September and into October. 

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, more than 300 rocks painted by children throughout Montgomery County are being placed around the Zoo. Each features an uplifting message or original artwork created with one goal in mind: sharing a little hope with someone who may need it. 

The project is meant to extend beyond the Zoo as well. Visitors are encouraged to discover the rocks during their visit, read the messages and even take one home or share it somewhere else in their community. In addition, community members are encouraged to bring a painted rock from home to add to the Hope Garden. 

“We’re incredibly proud to partner with Montgomery County on a project that can have such a meaningful impact in our community,” said Al Zone, CEO of Elmwood Park Zoo. “The Zoo is a place where families come together every day, and that makes it a natural setting to share these messages. Something as simple as a painted rock can remind someone that people care, that there is hope and that support is there when they need it. We’re honored to help these kids share those messages with even more people.” 

“We are very grateful to the Elmwood Park Zoo for finding a home for our HOPE ROCKS project,” said Claudine Schull, Children’s Community Behavioral Health Coordinator, HHS Office of Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities/Early Intervention. “Children from Montgomery County have painted over 300 rocks with inspiring messages and personal artwork in order to share hope with others. We believe that these messages can lift up someone who may be struggling with their mental health and encourage them to reach out for the help they need.” 

The partnership will also give more children the opportunity to contribute to the project. HHS representatives will be at Elmwood Park Zoo on select dates throughout September and October, where children can paint their own Hope Rocks with positive messages and artwork to add to the growing collection. 

A Hope Rocks painting opportunity is currently scheduled for October 30, with additional dates in September and October to be announced. 

Through the partnership, Elmwood Park Zoo and Montgomery County HHS hope the project not only brightens the day of those who discover a rock, but also helps start conversations about mental health, supporting one another and knowing where to turn when help is needed. 

Hope Rocks signage at the Zoo also directs visitors to mental health resources and encourages guests to help spread the messages throughout the community. 

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES 
Montgomery County Mobile Crisis: 1-855-634-HOPE (4673) 
Montgomery County Teen Talk Line: 1-866-825-5856 or Text: 215-703-8411 
National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Kyle Gurganious 
Director of Marketing 
Elmwood Park Zoo 
kgurganious@elmwoodparkzoo.org 

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ABOUT ELMWOOD PARK ZOO 
Elmwood Park Zoo, located in Norristown, Pennsylvania, is home to a diverse collection of species from around the world and is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and providing memorable guest experiences. Open year-round, the Zoo offers up-close animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly attractions including the Zoo Brew Beer Garden, a carousel, and seasonal events. Through hands-on learning opportunities and community programming, Elmwood Park Zoo inspires guests of all ages to connect with wildlife and the natural world. For more information, visit www.elmwoodparkzoo.org  

ABOUT MONTGOMERY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the largest department in the County offering a full continuum of services to ensure the health, safety and well-being of county residents. The Department serves children, families, young adults, adults, and older adults through its program offices which include: Aging Services, Children and Youth, Community Connections, Drug and Alcohol, Early Learning Resource Center, Housing and Community Development, Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities/Early Intervention, Public Health, and Veteran Services. For more information, visit https://www.montgomerycountypa.gov/departments/health-human-services