The search for Kathleen Williams is not hopeless.

Though it has been one year since the 53-year-old woman went missing, we encourage law enforcement, members of our community and Williams’ family to keep searching and maintain faith that Williams will be found.

Even though no new information about her location or status has been received, there is still hope.

Victoria Police Chief Keith Phillips says there is no evidence of foul play, revealing a sign of hope that we may still find Williams.

“We are still actively hoping and wishing we will receive more information,” Phillips said.

The police department is not alone in this regard. Throughout the past year friends, family and community members have united in the search for Williams.

By the end of searching last year, 100 people were involved.

Virginia Department of Emergency Management, Virginia State Police, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Lunenburg Sheriff’s Office, the Kenbridge Police Department, Nottoway Sheriff’s Office and numerous search and rescue organizations from across the state and local emergency services personnel assisted in the search.

We are proud of this community for coming together in its attempt to find Williams.

“We’re all wishing for some help from the public to help us find out where she is, or to at least let us know that she’s safe,” Phillips said.

We agree with Phillips and encourage anyone with any information to ease the pain of Williams’ family and friends by sharing that information with police.