PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Across the Interstate Bridge, the sound of traditional native drumming led a march for hope Monday.

The song serenaded hundreds of residents in Oregon and Southwest Washington who met above the Columbia for the 24th annual Hands Across the Bridge.

Started in 2001 by Patty Katz and Louise Wedge, the event invites people impacted by substance use disorders a stigma-free place to come together.

At the helm of the trek, Jayden Esquiro, a singer from Warm Springs, Oregon, told KOIN 6 News he is using his gifts to help uplift others following his own battle with substances.

“I’m here to sing and pray for those still struggling in addiction,” he said.

Esquiro is not alone. Before the march, those in recovery shared their stories both outside the Jantzen Beach Holiday

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