One of South Central Power Company’s core values is “Quality of life in the community.” It’s something we support year-round through employee volunteers, sponsorships, and donations to causes that make the greatest impact. This fall, South Central Power made a strategic investment in mental health and suicide prevention.
According to the latest data from Ohio Mental Health and Addiction Services, a state agency focused on mental health and addiction treatment and prevention, five Ohioans die by suicide every day, and one young person in Ohio dies by suicide every 34 hours. And, a recent study by The Ohio State University found that suicide rates ere highest in less-populous counties and in areas where people have lower incomes and fewer resources.
“Addressing mental health concerns, and specifically focusing on suicide prevention, is a key piece of helping communities recover and thrive,” says Rick Lemonds, president & CEO of South Central Power Company. “With these strategic investments in agencies that cover our service territory, we want to be part of the solution for individuals in need, and believe these investments will make a difference in our communities for a better future,” he says.
South Central Power has taken a significant step toward bolstering mental health support by donating $10,000, matched by our lending partner CoBank for a total of $20,000, to three local mental health agencies: New Horizons Mental Health Services, Tri-County Help Center, and Integrated Services for Behavioral Health. Each of these well-deserving organizations plays a vital role in providing support, resources, and hope to those facing mental health challenges.
“We appreciate South Central Power entrusting us with this investment in mental health services in the rural Ohio communities we both serve,” said Chuck Ressley, COO of New Horizons. “This grant will allow us to expand our outreach and provide crucial services to individuals who may otherwise not have access to them.”
South Central Power’s commitment to community well-being extends beyond providing reliable electricity. By supporting mental health agencies and promoting awareness, we are lighting the way to brighter and more resilient communities.
New Horizons — central Ohio
New Horizons Mental Health Services, based in Lancaster and serving surrounding rural communities, is the recipient of a $10,000 grant from South Central Power. This funding will enable them to continue their mission of empowering individuals with the tools and support needed to overcome mental health issues. New Horizons offers a range of services, including counseling, crisis intervention, and education programs, making them a cornerstone of mental health support in our community.
Integrated Services for Behavioral Health — southwest Ohio
A $5,000 grant to Integrated Services, a local agency with offices in Pickaway, Pike, Ross, and Vinton counties, will improve access to valuable mental health services in rural communities in the southern Ohio area. The agency’s integrated approach to treatment focuses on managing challenges, overcoming trauma, and problems such as addiction and abuse.
Tri-County Help Center — eastern Ohio
Tri-County Help Center, based in St. Clairsville and providing services in rural communities in eastern Ohio, received a $5,000 grant to bolster access to mental health services and target issues such as suicide and recovering from domestic violence and other forms of trauma.
Are you, or is someone you know, suffering with thoughts of suicide? There is help. Call the 988 hotline any day or time, 24/7 – help is standing by.
From the November 2023 issue of Ohio Cooperative Living.