9-8-8 is Here to Save Lives

A recently activated emergency phone number: three numbers... 9-8-8 is here to save lives. This is the new suicide hotline that will provide callers with help at the end of the line. By calling or texting 988 the caller will get emotional support from crisis counselors who understand and care. The number is available 24/7 across the nation.

Anyone who is depressed or finds themselves going through hard times and needs someone to talk to or is thinking about suicide or self-harm can use the service.

Locally, the Local Advisory Council (LAC) has activated a project to launch the introduction to the public. Drawn up by Danielle Murdock, a board has been created with spots for 988 names. Anyone making a donation to the effort can get their name on the board. When all 988 numbers have been spoken for, there will be $988 toward the "Neighbor in Need" fund, which the LAC will use to assist someone who is in need...be it gas money to get to a doctor or counselor, some assistance when they are having difficulty paying rent, providing food or medication...the Neighbor in Need strives to assist.

Spearheading the gathering of donations is Leona Siewing, who is assisted by Janice Reichelt and with the support of the volunteer members of the LAC.

The best news about the 988 donation chart is that when all 988 numbers are filled, a random number between 1 and 988 will be the number of a lucky donor who will receive $200 in CA$H. To get a number contact one of the LAC members and provide for someone who is in need. You might want to get a handful of numbers...as our friend and auctioneer, the late Cliff Rustad, would say... "it's only money!" What a worthwhile project.

The number is available in several languages for those who speak a language other than English.

Veterans and active service members can reach the Veterans Crisis Line 24/7 by texting 838233 or by calling 988 and pressing 1. Learn more about the VCL, fee; free to share to your friends in the military.

Share this information with your friends and loved ones...too often we are not aware of how one is feeling, and we need to be available, whether it be with a listening ear or information. Let's all do our best to BE THE ONE that is there for someone in need.

You can also reach Julie Nagy at the First State Bank of Malta to make donations.

This information has been shared in several avenues, including several Facebook spots. Don't let someone fall through the cracks and make a decision in a second that they may regret, forever.

Get on the board and get the numbers filled up. Especially in the season of giving and caring, help someone in need. That's what neighbors do...they help neighbors!