Kane Co. Kicks Off Suicide, Crisis Lifeline Awareness Campaign

KANE COUNTY, IL — The Kane County Health Department is looking to educate the public on its 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on April 25, the health department will host a drive-thru pickup event in the Kane County Circuit Clerk parking lot, 540 S. Randall Road in St. Charles, according to a news release from the health department.

The event is meant to kick off the KCHD’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline awareness campaign, which aims to increase community understanding of the 988 Lifeline, reduce stigma around mental health and suicide and connect individuals in crisis with immediate, confidential support, according to health officials.

The 988 suicide and crisis lifeline was established in June 2022 and replaced 1-800-273-TALK said Julie Mann, public information officer for Kane County Government. Those who call 988 can be connected with a trained crisis counselor who can help with a mental health crisis, suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, substance abuse struggles and concern for a loved one's mental well-being.

At the event, community members can pick up 988 yard signs, window clings and bumper stickers for placement at homes, businesses and organizations in Kane County – without getting out of their cars.

“Our hope is that every person in our community knows that help is just three digits away,” said Michael Isaacson, executive director of the Kane County Health Department. “By spreading the word about 988, we can reach more people, start important conversations, and ensure that no one feels alone in a moment of crisis.”

Those who pick up the materials are encouraged to take a photo with their 988 sign, share it on their social media platforms and tag the Kane County Health Department to let their friends and family know that support is always available.

KCHD will also have gun trigger locks, biometric gun safes, and the opioid overdose-reversing nasal spray, naloxone, available for free while supplies last. No ID or prescription is required, but gun owners must show a valid FOID card to receive a free biometric gun safe, according to the news release.

The Safe Kane County Drive-Thru Pickup event aligns with KCHD's recently launched campaign, "Connect with Kane: Learn, Grow, Thrive," a year-long effort aimed at raising awareness about the importance of mental health and facilitating access to local mental health and substance use resources.

For more information about the event and other mental health resources, please visit the Kane County Health Department's website or follow KCHD on Facebook or Instagram.