MHA Monmouth Partners with Jersey Shore Regional Health Commission Suicide Prevention Coalition to
Launch Suicide Prevention Guide for Faith Leaders
Tinton Falls, NJ (February 28, 2024) – The Mental Health Association of Monmouth County is pleased to announce the release of the Suicide Prevention Guide for Faith Leaders in collaboration with the Jersey Shore Regional Health Commission Suicide Prevention Coalition. This comprehensive guide aims to equip faith leaders with the necessary tools and knowledge to support individuals in crisis within their communities.
“We recognize the critical role that faith leaders play in providing support and guidance to individuals struggling with mental health challenges, including thoughts of suicide,” said Marie Argibay-Boccasino, Information & Referral Specialist at MHA Monmouth.
“By partnering with the Jersey Shore Regional Health Commission Suicide Prevention Coalition, we are able to extend our reach and provide invaluable resources to those on the frontlines of mental health support,” said Marney Rohda, Suicide Prevention Consultant.
Designed by Ellie McCreesh, the former health educator for Jersey Shore Regional Health Commission, the Suicide Prevention Guide for Faith Leaders offers practical strategies for recognizing warning signs, initiating conversations about mental health and suicide, and connecting individuals with appropriate resources. To obtain a copy of the guide, interested parties can contact Marie Argibay-Boccasino at [email protected].
In addition to the launch of the Suicide Prevention Guide for Faith Leaders, MHA Monmouth is excited to announce the receipt of a generous grant from Monmouth Parks. The $10,000 grant, secured through the efforts of Ashley Lobbato, will support the production and distribution of Volume 1 of the K-Way High comic book series.
Developed in partnership with the Monmouth County Diversity Alliance and Konkret Comics, the K-Way High comic book series aims to address mental health challenges and stigmas faced by today’s high school students. Featuring captivating artwork and engaging narratives, the series seeks to foster awareness, empathy, and open conversation surrounding these issues.
“We’re thrilled to receive support from Monmouth Parks for the K-Way High comic book series,” said Ashley Lobbato, Vice President of Youth Services at MHA Monmouth. “This funding will enable us to reach a broader audience and make a meaningful impact in raising awareness about mental health among youth.”
Volume 1 of the K-Way High comic book series will have a limited initial release at the end of the month. Those interested in obtaining a copy can contact Kevin Wilson at [email protected].
For more information about the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County and its programs, please visit www.mentalhealthmonmouth.org.
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About Mental Health Association of Monmouth County
Established in 1950, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County is an affiliate of the national nonprofit Mental Health America. Our professional staff has been on the forefront of creating a meaningful system of mental health care that strategically focuses on eliminating social barriers and mental health discrimination. With over 15 free programs and services, we create healthy communities for the future.
