JCSHYC and Project SAFE hosting town hall on suicide awareness

     Every year, one million adults report making a suicide attempt, according to the U.S. CDC. Worldwide, 800,000 people die due to suicide every year, according to the World Health Organization.

   A town hall-style community conversation will be held in Monticello on Tuesday, March 28, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Monticello High School. A panel of local experts will be on hand to answer specific questions and concerns from the audience. Resource tables and a free dinner will be available from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The local resource vendor show will feature over a dozen local agencies and resources on site who will provide additional information on mental health, suicide awareness and prevention, and prevention of alcohol and substance abuse.

   The event is sponsored by the Jones County Safe and Healthy Youth Coalition (JCSHYC) and Project SAFE of the Cedar River Coordinator Area, which serves to provide suicide awareness and education to the Corridor area. Mike Farr, founder of Project SAFE, formed the organization in memory of his son, Garrett, who lost his battle with depression in September 2017. Project SAFE’s mission is: “Together we are saving lives, ONE LIFE at a TIME.”

   “This event is to help others become aware of all of the resources available in the Jones County area,” Farr said. “I, personally, was not aware of all of the resources available. I hope that we can help others, so that they will not have to experience the great loss that my family has experienced.”

   The community town hall is open to everyone; all are welcome. No preregistration is required. The event provides a safe environment where students and parents can gain a deeper understanding of the causes, warning signs, and coping strategies regarding teen depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.

   For more information, visit Project SAFE CRCA on Facebook, at projectsafecr.org, or contact Jennifer Husmann with the Coalition at 319-462-4327 ext. 661.

   Project SAFE will be giving away two $500 scholarships. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible. You must be present to win. The scholarships are payable to the school of choice after graduation.