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Judge pauses deadline for federal workers to accept Trump's resignation offer; California state lawmakers are taking action to enact safeguards against federal immigration enforcement; Study shows air quality disparities from industrial ag in NC.

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Attorney General Pam Bondi strikes a Trump tone at the Justice Department, federal workers get more time to consider buyouts and an unclassified email request from the White House worries CIA vets.

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During Black History Month, a new book shares how a unique partnership built 5,000 schools for Black students, anti-hunger advocates say ag communities would benefit from an expanded SNAP program, and Americans have $90 billion in unpaid medical bills.

MA boosts funding for 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline services

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Monday, July 1, 2024   

Community groups in Massachusetts will see continued funding to support the state's 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Public health officials have announced more than $8 million in grants to better support those experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts. Nearly 7,000 calls were routed through the state in May alone.

Danielle Bolduc, suicide prevention program director for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, said the hotline offers free, confidential support at any time of day.

"We really encourage folks to reach out maybe even before they're in a crisis state so we can do some preventive work and get folks support," Bolduc explained.

Bolduc pointed out dedicated support is available for veterans, LGBTQ+ youths and young adults. She said the state is ensuring staffing is in place ahead of a larger 988 public awareness campaign planned for later this summer.

Nearly two years since the hotline's activation, a new report offers a roadmap for states to better support 988 services and especially free up law enforcement resources. Several cities in Massachusetts, including Springfield and Worcester, have established mobile response units to help those experiencing a mental health emergency rather than police.

Angela Kimball, chief advocacy officer for the mental health advocacy organization Inseparable, said one in five fatal police shootings involve someone with a mental illness.

"We can avoid the expense, the trauma of emergency departments, of jails, of law-enforcement involvement," Kimball emphasized. "And really give people help when they need it most."

Kimball noted while Massachusetts has established a state advisory board for the hotline and requires annual reports to the Legislature, the state would benefit by following the lead of at least 10 other states in creating a monthly telecom surcharge. With calls to the hotline expected to grow, she added it could generate nearly $7 million annually for 988-related services.

Disclosure: Inseparable contributes to our fund for reporting on Criminal Justice, Health Issues, Mental Health, and Social Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.

References:  
Suicide data CDC 2024

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