Tester Announces $125,000 to Support Lewis and Clark County Suicide Prevention Programs

U.S. Senator Jon Tester today announced $125,000 in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services funds for Lewis and Clark County to continue providing suicide prevention trainings and build awareness about treatment options.

"The fact is that suicide rates among folks in rural America are at an all-time high and it's critically important that Montanans know that there's support available," Tester said. "These funds will help ensure the folks in Lewis and Clark County can continue to provide critical resources for those who need them. It's not always easy to ask for support, but I encourage anyone who feels overwhelmed to reach out because it can make all the difference."

The Lewis and Clark Suicide Prevention Coalition (LCSPC) was founded in 2018 with the help of a Department of Health and Human Services grant to provide suicide prevention trainings and community resources in coordination with Lewis and Clark Public Health (LCPH). This funding will allow LCSPC to expand trainings into Jefferson and Broadwater counties. The grant will provide $125,000 in funding annually for the next five years.

Senator Tester has long advocated for increased access to mental health services in rural areas. Earlier this year, he secured over $10 millionin American Rescue Plan funding to bolster mental health services across Montana. He also championed the Seeding Rural Resilience Act, which provides suicide prevention tools and resources through the Farm Service Agency.

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK, or 1-800-273-8255.