Syracuse, New York, July 15, 2024 – Contact Community Services proudly marks the two-year anniversary of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a critical national resource for individuals in need of immediate support. This significant milestone underscores the vital role that 988 has played in suicide prevention and crisis intervention, with Contact Community Services serving as a local responder for Central New York.

The 988 Lifeline offers free, confidential, and immediate support for those experiencing a mental health crisis, suicidal thoughts, or emotional distress. Operating 24/7, this lifeline connects callers to trained crisis counselors who provide compassionate care and critical resources. Since its inception, 988 has transformed the landscape of mental health support across the nation, and locally, Contact Community Services has been at the forefront of this impactful work.

“The establishment of 988 has been a game-changer in the realm of mental health and crisis support,” said Antara Mitra, Executive Director of Contact Community Services. “Our dedicated 988 team works tirelessly to provide life-saving assistance, and their impressive commitment to supporting individuals in their most vulnerable moments is truly remarkable. We are immensely proud of the work they do every day to ensure that no call for help goes unanswered.”

In the past two years, the 988 Lifeline has received nearly 30,000 calls from individuals across Central New York, each one met with the empathy and expertise that Contact Community Services is known for. The organization’s crisis counselors are specially trained to de-escalate situations, offer emotional support, and connect individuals with appropriate resources for ongoing care.

The 988 Lifeline provides an accessible, easy-to-remember number for anyone in crisis, significantly reducing the stigma around seeking help. By offering immediate and confidential support, 988 helps to prevent tragedies and promote mental wellness across the community. Since June 2023, New York State has seen a 50%  increase in call volume. 

As Contact Community Services celebrates this milestone, they extend their heartfelt gratitude to their crisis counselors, supporters, and the community for their unwavering commitment to mental health and well-being.

For more information about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, please visit 988lifeline.org or call or text 988 for immediate support. 

About Contact Community Services:

Contact Community Services is a nonprofit organization based in Central New York passionately committed to empowering community members of all ages through compassionate support. Our mission is to provide a lifeline for individuals in crisis, fostering mental well-being across communities. Dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health education, we offer safe spaces where hope and healing thrive. Through our main program areas—Crisis and Suicide Prevention, School Support Services, and Training and Education—Contact operates vital services like the 988 Lifeline and 211 CNY. These initiatives strengthen our community by ensuring access to crucial support and resources. Learn more at contactsyracuse.org.