September is Suicide Prevention Month
Every young person deserves to feel like they belong. When young people know they are cared for and that their basic needs will be met, they are better equipped to face life’s challenges. Providing for these needs is a powerful way to foster connection and community, helping youth understand that they matter and are valued. This is where suicide prevention begins—by creating environments where young people can thrive, feel supported, and know they have a place in the world.
Ensuring Basic Needs Are Met
When young people have consistent access to essentials—such as food, hygiene products, and emotional support—it communicates to them that they are worthy of care and that their community is invested in their success.
- Food Calendar: Free prepared foods, food pantries and distribution locations, and meals to go in Bennington County
- Take Care Project: Check out the Care Map for locations in Bennington that provide free menstrual products and hygiene essentials
- Bennington Help Map
Creating Safe Spaces
In addition to material resources, young people need safe spaces where they feel secure, respected, and free to be themselves. These environments are vital for fostering connections and developing resilience. This is especially important for marginalized youth, including LGBTQ+ teens, young people of color, and young people living in poverty, who often face additional layers of social stigma or exclusion.
- Gender & Sexuality Alliances (GSAs): GLOW at MAUMS meets Tuesdays after school. Contact advisors Ms. Marks or Alyssa Irizarry for more information. // SAGAA at MAUHS meets Thursdays 2:30 pm. Contact advisor Mx. West for more information.
- Resources for students & families experiencing homelessness: Contact SVSU Assistant Superintendent and Homeless Liaison Laura Boudreau at (802) 447-7501 or lboudreau@svsu.org
Creating Systems of Support
Actively working to connect young people with mental health resources shows that they’re not alone in their struggles. While access to mental health care is often challenging due to cost, availability, and stigma, community crisis services and telehealth options can help bridge the gap for those who might otherwise go without the care they deserve.
- Mobile Crisis Services: For Vermonters who are experiencing an emotional, mental health or substance use non-medical emergency. Mobile Crisis services come to you, so you don’t need to wait in an emergency room or call 911. Call UCS at (802) 442-5491.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Additional mental health crisis resources, including warm-lines that do not use police intervention
Suicide prevention is in the small, everyday actions of showing up for young people. It is deeply connected to building a world that is safe for all to live in. We have a collective responsibility for each other’s well-being. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where every young person feels they truly belong.