Twelve young people have died by suicide in Benton and Franklin Counties since the beginning of 2017. Suicide prevention efforts in Benton and Franklin Counties began with a statewide program led locally by field coordinators with the Youth Suicide Prevention Program (YSPP) since approximately 2000.
Prevention Summit
In 2018, BFHD held a prevention summit with community partners to create an action plan to support Benton and Franklin Counties collective efforts to address youth suicide.
Understanding the issues concerning suicide and mental health
is an important way to take part in suicide prevention, help others in
crisis, and change the conversation around suicide.
Benton-Franklin Youth Suicide Prevention Coalitions
The Benton Franklin Youth Suicide Prevention Coalitions mission is to promote awareness and understanding that suicide is a preventable health problem in Benton and Franklin counties and encourage our community to TALK ABOUT IT! The work of the coalition is focused on awareness events and creating a safety net for our youth through agency collaboration and advocacy.
Benton Franklin Youth Suicide Prevention Coalition meets on the first Wednesday of every month at the United Way (401 N. Young St.) in Kennewick at 9:15am. The meeting is open to community members interested in creating awareness and safety nets for youth in our community.
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If you have further questions, please contact our Kennewick office at 509.460.4200.