Council endorses 988 crisis line initiative

FORT ST JOHN B.C. — Fort St. John council recently voted in favour of displaying posters in city facilities to promote the 988 Crisis Line to spread awareness about suicide prevention.

Councillors made the decision during their January 22nd meeting while also agreeing to continue endorsing the crisis line. 

Cariboo-Prince George MP Todd Doherty sent letters to municipalities, asking them to help spread awareness of the hotline by displaying the 988 Crisis Line information poster within municipal buildings.

Council acknowledged that the initiative is significant to ensure critical barriers are removed for people in crisis who require help. 

“While I’m extremely proud of this common-sense Conservative policy that will save lives, our work is not done,” said Doherty.

The motion was previously tabled at the January 8th regular council meeting and brought back for discussion last Monday.

People are encouraged to spread awareness by asking businesses to display posters and post on social media, according to the 988 website.

988 is a 24/7 crisis line for suicide prevention available by call or text in Canada.

The 988 suicide crisis website can be found here.