Cigna Awards $100,000 Grant to Vibrant Emotional Health to Further Suicide Prevention Among LGBTQI+ Youth in Queens
Media Contact
Divendra Jaffar, [email protected]
New York, NY – April 3, 2024 – Vibrant Emotional Health (Vibrant), one of the nation’s leading mental health organizations, announces a grant of $100,000 from The Cigna Group Foundation to expand suicide prevention initiatives targeting LGBTQI+ youth in Queens, NY. The grant will specifically support the implementation of the Queens Affirming Youth and Family Alliance program, aimed at offering crucial support to LGBTQI+ youth and their families, with a focus on individuals who identify as BIPOC and those experiencing significant physical, behavioral, or psychological health conditions.
The program, operated by Vibrant, will provide tailored support services, particularly to those grappling with suicidal ideation or who have attempted suicide. By addressing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQI+ youth in Queens, the program seeks to foster a supportive environment and provide essential resources to those in need.
Lisa Furst, Chief Programs Officer at Vibrant Emotional Health, expressed gratitude for the generous grant from The Cigna Group Foundation and emphasized its profound impact on the LGBTQI+ community. She stated, “This grant from The Cigna Group Foundation enables us to expand our critical suicide prevention efforts, ensuring that LGBTQI+ youth in Queens receive the support and resources they deserve. We are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of these individuals and their families.”
“Supporting programs aimed at improving youth mental health and wellness is a priority for us,” said Suzanne Klotz, President of The Cigna Group Foundation. “We are proud to come alongside Vibrant Emotional Health as they encourage safe and affirming family systems.”
The program will be staffed by a dedicated team of professionals, including a Program Director, Program Supervisor, and Family Peer Advocates. These professionals are extensively trained in supporting LGBTQI+ individuals and their families. Vibrant’s leadership will oversee the program’s implementation to ensure its effectiveness and adherence to best practices in suicide prevention and LGBTQI+ support.
Through collaborative efforts with community partners and stakeholders, the program aims to create a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQI+ youth and their families in Queens, offering hope and assistance to those facing mental health challenges.
For more information about Vibrant Emotional Health, please visit www.vibrant.org.
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About Vibrant Emotional Health
Vibrant Emotional Health is a non-profit organization that helps individuals and families achieve emotional well-being. For over 50 years, our groundbreaking solutions have delivered high-quality services and support when, where, and how people need it. We offer confidential emotional support through our state-of-the-art contact center and crisis hotline services that use leading-edge telephone, text, and web-based technologies, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Disaster Distress Helpline, Veterans Crisis Line, and NFL Life Line. Through our community wellness programs, individuals and families obtain the support and skills they need to thrive. Our advocacy and education initiatives promote mental well-being as a social responsibility. We help nearly 5 million people live healthier and more vibrant lives yearly. We’re advancing access, dignity, and respect for all and revolutionizing the system for good. Visit vibrant.org. Follow Vibrant on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
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