September 2023

Suicide Prevention Month

Clara Reynolds, President & CEO, speaks on suicide prevention services from the Gateway Contact Center.



Finding Hope Again

When Linda called the 988 line looking for support, it wasn’t for herself but for her 18-year-old son. For years, he had struggled with thoughts of suicide. Since graduating high school and leaving for college over the past few months, his thoughts of suicide had increased. Linda was feeling overwhelmed and was losing hope that she’d ever find support for her son.

Linda shared that she had spent the past few days calling various resources throughout the community looking for help for her son without any luck. The 988 line was her last cry for help. The intervention specialist who answered Linda’s call provided support and reminded her not to give up hope because help was available. Linda was overwhelmed with gratitude and for the first time, felt like she and her son were not navigating his mental health issues alone.

Linda opted to receive follow-up support from the Suicide Prevention Care Coordination team. When the Care Coordinator connected with Linda, Linda shared that calling the 988 line was the first time she spoke to someone who cared about her and her son and genuinely wanted to help. While they are still navigating resources and support for Linda’s son, they know they are on their way to finding the help they need.

 

September is Suicide Prevention Month

One of the more positive outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic is that many individuals are more comfortable speaking openly about mental health issues. With the new 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, it is easier for individuals struggling with thoughts of suicide to reach out for help when they need it. Whether you call for yourself or someone else, know that you will be greeted by a caring, compassionate team member who will listen to you and provide support where they can. Help is available 24/7, 365 days a year when you dial 988.

$25,000 Grant from Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to Fund Rape Exams

The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation provided a grant of $25,000 to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay to fund sexual assault exams. This funding will cover the costs of about 35 exams for individuals ages 13 to 17. Last year, the Crisis Center provided sexual assault exams to 334 individuals, with 34 of those clients being under the age of 18.

Thank you to the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation for their ongoing support of our services so we can ensure no one in our community has to face crisis alone.

Hear stories about the community members we help, see the service areas where we provide healing to clients, and learn about the urgent needs of the families we serve. Be sure to click the link below to register to attend an upcoming tour.



Thank you to our corporate partners!

Thank you to our funders!

Connect with Us