Federal funds will boost Maine youth suicide prevention, including for tribes

BANGOR — The federal government is providing funding to Maine to help prevent youth suicide, including in Native American populations.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is awarding more than $700,000 each to Wabanaki Health and Wellness in Bangor and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. Wabanaki Health is an agency that helps Native Americans with services such as health and housing.

Independent Sen. Angus King and Republican Sen. Susan Collins say the funding will support youth suicide prevention programs in the state. Maine will use its money for a grant program designed to support early intervention strategies in venues such as schools and juvenile justice systems.

If you or anyone you know is battling depression or has had suicidal thoughts, resources include:

• Maine Crisis Hotline: 888-568-1112

• Other state resources in Maine: 211

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255