This year, we are also spreading awareness of 988, the new three-digit phone and text number for mental health and substance use crises. The launch of 988 this summer marks significant progress towards expanding access at the critical time a person needs help. Buckelew operates one of the 13 call centers in California that are part of the national 988 Lifeline network; our suicide prevention hotlines have been in continuous operation since 1971.

While September events draw much needed attention to this important issue of mental health care, year-round, Buckelew Programs' Suicide Prevention Outreach Team connects with local schools and community groups throughout the North Bay to provide education and awareness about suicide prevention and self-care. This includes meeting with local business groups for education and “Lunch & Learn” style events. Buckelew Programs also provides support programming to survivors of suicide. 

If you would like to connect your community or business group with Buckelew Programs Suicide Prevention Outreach, please contact us here.  

Within hours of the emotional closure of Athena house, which provides 40 treatment beds for low-income and formerly incarcerated women dealing substance use, Bill and Cindy Gallaher of Santa Rosa, a real estate and banking family, stepped forward to purchase the facility as well as its sister sober-living campus, Hope Village, serving 30 women and their children. Had the programs closed, 30 women and their children in Hope Village would have become homeless. The Gallaher Family purchased land and buildings and pledged to build a new Athena House on the 2.2-acre campus and renovate Hope Village homes. Buckelew will operate the programs, providing substance use treatment and wraparound services to the women. “We are in awe of the Gallahers’ generosity and immensely grateful for the passionate and swift advocacy by Athena House alumnae, current and past elected officials, service providers and women’s advocates,” said Buckelew Programs CEO Chris Kughn, LMFT. “It was the best ‘Hail Mary’ campaign I have ever seen.” Estimated ground breaking of Athena House will begin during 2023 during which time, Hope Village residents will remain safely housed and receiving services.

That’s why we’re asking for your financial support and help us raise $50,000 to fund critical suicide prevention outreach, education and awareness throughout four North Bay counties. If you make a gift by October 15, our generous partners at Redwood Credit Union will match all gifts received up to $15,000. 

Thank you for your interest in our work. We welcome all suggestions to help us improve our communications to you. Please contact Pat Gallagher, Chief Philanthropy Officer at PatG@Buckelew.org or 415.491.5748.