September 2024

September is Suicide Prevention Month

President & CEO Clara Reynolds shares the many way community members struggling with thoughts of suicide are supported when they connect with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.



A Late-Night Call to the

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Callie called the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline late at night. She had seen posts on social media from her middle school classmates bullying her about her father being in prison and her mother’s weight. Callie was having thoughts of stabbing herself and had even written suicide notes that were saved in her closet.

The Intervention Specialist who answered the call listened as Callie explained how lonely she felt and how she didn’t have anyone to talk to at school or home. Together, they built a safety plan, talking through some activities that made Callie feel better that she could practice in the moments she felt low.

By the end of the call, Callie shared that she felt much better and was no longer thinking about harming herself. Callie did confirm that she could call 988 again if she ever started to feel lonely again. She was also connected with the Suicide Prevention Care Coordination team so they could follow-up and ensure that Callie was practicing her safety plan. 

PowerStories Theatre Focusing on

Suicide Prevention

Join PowerStories on September 20 and 21 for Right Before I Go, a powerful play narrated by Stan Zimmerman that highlights the final messages of individuals lost to suicide.

This event features readings by four Tampa Bay actors and local personalities and tells stories of hope and resilience, reminding us that even in the darkest times, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel.

A portion of ticket sales will support the Crisis Center. By attending this staged reading, you contribute to essential conversations about mental health, breaking down stigma, and fostering a supportive community.

Dine with Columbia Restaurant Group

and Support the Crisis Center

Throughout September, the 1905 Family of Restaurants is hosting their annual Community Harvest event. Anyone who dines at one of their restaurants can choose the Crisis Center from a list of organizations to donate a portion of their dining bill to. Participating restaurants include all Columbia Restaurant locations, the Columbia Cafe, Cha Cha Coconuts, Ulele, Goody Goody, and Casa Santo Stefano.

Providing Support to Travelers at Tampa International Airport

For many years, travelers at Tampa International Airport have been directed to the Travelers Aid desk when they were experiencing a travel emergency. Those emergencies look different for everyone, ranging from needing a stamp to being stranded at the airport because a ride failed to show up.

The desk is staffed by a team of volunteers who work seven days a week for extended day-time hours supporting travelers. Travelers can receive this assistance thanks to Signature Flight sponsoring the program and the airport providing the space for volunteers to operate from. Next time you are traveling through the airport, be sure to stop by the desk to say “hi” to the friendly volunteers! 

Hear stories about the community members we help, see the service areas where we provide healing to clients, and learn about the urgent needs of the families we serve. Be sure to click the link below to register to attend an upcoming tour. Our next tour is on Thursday, September 12th.

Thank you to our corporate partners!

Thank you to our funders!

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