County Executive Ken Jenkins Hosts Roundtable Discussion to Promote 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline In Westchester

In recognition of the month of September as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, County Executive Ken Jenkins recently held a roundtable discussion with advocates, business leaders and non-profit groups to help promote the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in Westchester.

The 988 Call Center, operated in partnership between Westchester County and Saint Joseph’s Medical Center, provides free and confidential emotional support to people in crisis or emotional distress 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.

Leaders from a variety of sectors exchanged ideas, shared resources, and discussed best practices to expand the reach of 988 across the County. Participants focused on the importance of coordinating outreach, and unifying messaging to ensure that more people are aware of this lifesaving service.

 “Having the 988 Call Center right here in Westchester County has proven to be a significant help to thousands of people, with the Call Center receiving nearly 18,000 calls in 2024 alone. Yet, we have found that many people across the County are not aware of these services. My office is making a major effort to educate the public that 988 exists, and that it can save lives,” said Jenkins.

Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health Michael Orth said, “I want to thank the County Executive for hosting this roundtable that brought together key stakeholders to learn more about the 988 crisis line and ways that we can work together to inform the residents of Westchester of this life saving and important program.” He added, “The 988 Lifeline gives people the opportunity to reach out for help no matter the crisis that they face. Whether it is a family issue, anxiety, stress, bullying, substance use or thinking about self-harm, the 988 call center is local, free and confidential to anyone who uses it. I look forward to further conversations that open up new ideas that will reach across the County and ensure that people know that there is hope and there is help out there.”

Attending the roundtable for the BCW on September 29 was Linda Tyler, Vice President of Membership & Programs. The BCW will work with County Executive Jenkins to get the word out about this vitally important resource.