(Brookville, IN) – As part of its 2023 community investment process, United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties granted funds to several community partners in the area working to improve mental health.
Franklin County and Ripley County have suicide rates six and four points higher than the state average, respectively, and United Way of Franklin and Ripley County and its partners are committed to reducing the number of people that feel life is unbearable and not worth living. Investments in mental health are part of a larger focus on total wellbeing for United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties.
Franklin and Ripley counties have a low ratio of mental health providers to residents, so it is essential that every member of the community is part of the network to identify people who may be at risk for suicide and refer them to appropriate local resources,” said Kelly Bulmer, President and CEO of United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties. “Our vision is a hope-filled, resilient community where everyone can meet their essential needs, connect to new opportunities and to each other, and feel proud to call Franklin or Ripley County home. Achieving that vision takes collaboration.”
United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties is part of the Suicide and Overdose Fatality Review Team, which meets regularly to review data, identify lapses in the support network, and make recommendations for reducing the rates of suicide and overdose.
In addition, United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties is partnering with One Community One Family to reduce fatality statistics through a new community-based training called QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer).
“The new program will ensure that everyone in our community has the knowledge to save a life,” said Bulmer.
“Advancing total wellbeing and quality of life in our community means supporting access to healthy food and physical recreation, meaningful work, financial stability, supportive housing, social connection, and community involvement,” said Tim Brack, United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties Board Chair. “It means recognizing that some families are struggling, and others are barely surviving, and we are all uplifted when we provide a livable foundation for every individual. Every member of our community deserves to feel like they are thriving and to love where they live.”
Act in support of your neighbors by making a financial gift in support of a hopeful future where everyone finds purpose and feels valued in Franklin and Ripley counties. You can donate securely online at https://bit.ly/uwfrc-donate-mentalhealth or mail a check to United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties, PO Box 105, Brookville, IN 47012.
Funding for collaborative community efforts is made possible thanks to the generosity of local residents, employees, and employers that contribute to United Way of Franklin and Ripley County, plus matching grant support from Indiana United Ways, the state membership association for United Ways serving Indiana Counties.
If you or someone you know may be at risk of suicide, please dial 9-8-8 to speak confidentially to a support counselor at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Lifeline). The Lifeline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Chat and text options in English and Spanish are also available.
(United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties press release)
