During Suicide Prevention Month, U.S. Senators Wyden, Merkley Announce Federal Funding for Oregon Veteran Programs

Resources going to groups serving veterans in Marion, Polk, Clackamas, Multnomah, Lake, Marion, Tillamook and Washington counties

Washington D.C- U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a combined federal investment of $1.84 million to support three Oregon community organizations with suicide prevention programs and services for veterans and their families.

"Taking care of those who served our country is one of the most important things we all can do as Americans," Wyden said. "This is a vital issue year-round, but it's especially timely to shine a light on these crucial resources for Oregonians during Suicide Prevention Month throughout September. I'm gratified these organizations are providing Oregon veterans with touchpoints that could save their lives and prevent unimaginable heartache for their loved ones."

"Just as we would never leave our wounded troops behind on the battlefield, we can't leave them behind here at home. We need to make sure that veterans who are struggling with mental health and depression have access to the care they need in their communities," Merkley said. "This federal funding from the VA for community-driven veteran suicide prevention efforts is essential to fulfilling our promise to honor and support all those who heeded the call to protect our nation. Veterans stood up for us, and investments like this are critical to standing up for them."

WestCare Oregon, Inc., serving Marion and Polk Counties, secured $750,000 from the Veterans Health Administration; Veteran Rites Inc., serving Clackamas and Multnomah Counties, earned $344,822; and Permission to Start Dreaming Foundation, serving Lake, Marion, Tillamook, and Washington Counties, secured $750,000.

"In honoring the brave service of our veterans, we must ensure that the care they receive continues long after the battle has ended," said WestCare Oregon Inc. Chief Operating Officer Shawn Jenkins. "The Sergeant Fox Veterans Suicide Grant is a vital lifeline, providing essential support and resources to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. Together, we can turn the tide on veteran suicide and foster a community where every soldier knows their life matters."

"Veteran Rites was born from the desperate prayer of a suicidal Army veteran returning from Afghanistan to a society at war with itself. He found his peace through an initiation into his True Identity, Purpose, and Belonging that actually honored the whole veteran and the whole story that he carried," said Veteran Rites Founding Executive Director Ryan Mielcarek. "We are humbled and honored to join forces with Senators Wyden and Merkley, the VA, and all of those with boots on ground working shoulder to shoulder to welcome home our veterans so they can live the future worthy of their sacrifice. Together, we can step into a new story by getting to the heart of what it means to be fully human in a body and connected to community after service."

If you're a veteran in crisis or concerned about one, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive 24/7 confidential support. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect. To reach responders, Dial 988 then Press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255.

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