The Erie community came together for a candlelight vigil, remembering those killed in the devastating flash floods in Nepal and China.
The vigil gave people a chance to mourn, reflect, and stand in solidarity with families still waiting for answers.
As the death toll continues to rise following catastrophic flooding, people of all backgrounds and ages came together in Erie — united by grief, compassion, and a shared hope for those affected.
The vigil was organized by Gannon University international student and Nepali Student Association President Aayudh Pant.
He says the goal was to bring the community together to honor those who were lost — while also standing with the families who are still waiting for word about their loved ones.
We also spoke with Nandu Subedi, president of the Bhutanese Community in Erie, about the city’s large Nepali community.
Erie is home to an estimated four thousand Nepali residents, including more than 75 students at Gannon University alone.
The flooding has also left families waiting for answers across the region. On the Chinese side of the border, at least 461 foreign nationals from 23 countries remain unaccounted for.
For many who attended the vigil, the moment was about more than remembering those who died. It was also about showing support for the families still searching for their loved ones — and reminding them that they are not alone.
If you’re looking for a way to help people impacted by the floods, relief efforts are underway. You can find a GoFundMe supporting flood relief by searching for “How to Help Nepal Floods — Now.