LVF Now Operating 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Bucks County
When Bucks County residents call 988 for mental health or substance use assistance, the voice on the other end of the line now will belong to trained professionals from Lenape Valley Foundation.
This month, Lenape Valley Foundation began operating the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Bucks County. The nonprofit has hired eight crisis hotline specialists to staff the call center, which is based out of the organization’s crisis residential center, The Lodge, in Bristol.
“In the same way that 911 connects callers to physical health emergency services, 988 simplifies access to behavioral health emergency services,” said Dave Herold, chief executive officer of Lenape Valley Foundation. “This move will ensure that our neighbors in crisis can quickly reach trained professionals who provide inclusive, culturally responsive care and can connect them to the appropriate local support.”
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline connects to a national network of more than 200 local crisis centers that provide free, confidential support to people in emotional or behavioral distress. The service was mandated in the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act, which Congress passed in 2020. In Pennsylvania, 988 became available on July 16, 2022.
988 service is available 24/7 through call, text, or chat. Each method offers a connection with trained behavioral health professionals who have years of experience counseling individuals and families, including veterans, Spanish speakers, and members of the LGBTQI+ community.
988 service aims to:
- Provide immediate crisis intervention from trained mental health professionals.
- Reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and law enforcement interactions for mental health crises.
- Connect callers with appropriate follow-up care and community resources.
- Offer an accessible alternative for those experiencing mental health emergencies.
“Adding 988 to LVF’s continuum of crisis care services will strengthen the resources available to residents across Bucks County, expanding access to timely and effective support in moments of need,” Herold said.
These initiatives come at a critical time when communities nationwide are recognizing the importance of accessible mental health services. Community members are encouraged to save the 988 number and share information about this resource with family and friends. Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or those concerned about a loved one can simply call or text 988 from any phone or start a chat online at https://chat.988lifeline.org/.