This past Saturday, 988, an easy-to-remember three-digit number for 24/7 mental health and substance use crisis care, rolled out across the country. Anyone can call, text or message 988 to talk to a trained crisis counselor and get information about local crisis resources. Although 988 is a national initiative, each state is responsible for its own 988 implementation and coordination with other crisis services. Rolling out 988 is a significant undertaking and one with many facets.

In this week's edition of The Ally, we stress the importance of 988 and its associated crisis services being responsive to children and their families. The needs of children and families are different than those of adults, and we must equip Mississippi's crisis system to respond to people of all ages. We share our initial thoughts and ideas from the pediatric community on how to make that happen. We also invite all families with children 26 years of age and younger to respond to a national survey from the Family Run Executive Directors' Leadership Association about your experience with crisis services for your child.

Check out our resources section for more information on 988. As always, we look forward to working in partnership with all of you to ensure Mississippi's system of care for children is responsive and family-driven. 

Our virtual Virtual: Bring Your IEP and Other School Questions is July 21 at noon CT. Any family with school questions or issues is welcome to join. Families as Allies Board Quarterly Board Meeting (virtual) is on July 21 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CT. All meetings are open to the public and include time for public comments.