Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne Bass, presents an American flag to Kathy McCoy, the widow of the sixth CMSAF, James McCoy, during an internment ceremony for James in Omaha Nebraska July 29. | Offutt Air Force Base/Flickr
Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne Bass, presents an American flag to Kathy McCoy, the widow of the sixth CMSAF, James McCoy, during an internment ceremony for James in Omaha Nebraska July 29. | Offutt Air Force Base/Flickr
Michigan has decided to fund several suicide prevention programs to help veterans suffering from depression and other mental health issues.
“Veteran suicide remains a persistent problem in Michigan and nationwide, and we must use every resource and tool we have to protect the lives of our former service members,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI), according to a Sept. 21 press release.
Whitmer said the state is investing $1.2 million to help prevent veteran suicide and support Michigan’s 550,000 veterans.
“Today’s investment will expand funding for suicide prevention efforts in Michigan and build on the ongoing efforts of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency to keep veterans and their families safe and healthy,” Whitmer said.
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, and Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) Director Zaneta Adams were on hand when Whitmer made the announcement.
“Michigan veterans are the best of us, and we owe our best effort and investment to support them and their families,” Gilchrist II said in the release. “This funding is a step forward in our efforts to end tragic suicides among Michigan’s veterans and build a Michigan where every veteran and their family can find opportunity, access healthcare, and thrive. Governor Whitmer and I are grateful for the partnership of the MVAA in funding this holistic approach to connecting veterans with resources and we are committed to continuing to stand tall for veterans in Michigan.”
The move is the state’s biggest investment in veteran suicide prevention since 2000 and likely the largest in Michigan history, according to the release.
“The funding will support the ongoing efforts of the governor’s challenge to prevent suicide among service members, veterans and their families,” Adams said. “Effective veteran suicide prevention strategy involves a holistic approach. We know that connection to health care and other resources reduces suicides for veterans, so when we help a veteran with housing needs or emergency grant assistance, we are part of the prevention.”
Whitmer said she will continue bipartisan efforts to advocate for veterans.
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