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“Chimo Community Services to Provide Suicide Crisis Support as Part of the 9-8-8 Network: A Crucial Step in Addressing a National Crisis”
Chimo Community Services, based in Richmond, BC, has joined the initiative to provide suicide crisis support as part of the 9-8-8 network, an important move in combating Canada’s alarming suicide rates. With every passing day, an average of 12 people in Canada die by suicide, leaving a trail of grief, loss, and sorrow in their wake. This pressing public health issue has prompted the government of Canada to expand access to mental health and suicide prevention resources for all Canadians.
Chimo Joins the 9-8-8 Network
Joining forces with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Chimo Community Services has pledged to play a vital role in addressing the urgent need for suicide crisis support. The 9-8-8 service will be available 24/7 in both English and French, offering trauma-informed and culturally appropriate suicide prevention services to people across the country. This partnership is a significant step towards ensuring that individuals in crisis receive the necessary support when they need it the most.
Providing Crucial, Confidential Support
As of November 30, 2023, Chimo Community Services, along with other organizations, will not only continue offering their existing crisis services but also answer calls and texts from the 9-8-8 network. This expansion of support aims to connect individuals with the closest responder based on their area code and ensure every call is answered by compassionate and knowledgeable crisis responders.
Thought-Provoking Quotes
“The Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, emphasizes the need for localized, confidential, and non-judgmental support, especially in times of crisis.”
Support in Times of Darkness
Slinder Bhatti, the Executive Director of Chimo Community Services, stresses the significance of ensuring every call is answered by skilled and compassionate Crisis Responders, highlighting the transformative impact that the 9-8-8 initiative will have on individuals in moments of darkness.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The collaboration between Chimo Community Services and CAMH marks a significant milestone in addressing the critical issue of suicide in Canada. By providing accessible support to people in crisis, the 9-8-8 network has the potential to save countless lives and mitigate the widespread impact of suicide on families and communities. As this initiative takes shape, it is essential to continue advocating for mental health awareness, destigmatizing seeking help, and building a compassionate, supportive community for those struggling with mental health and addictions.
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