Samaritans Southcoast Expands Role in Massachusetts 988 Program

The new year is bringing an expanded role for Samaritans Southcoast, an organization helping people overcome depression and despair.

Under the Commonwealth's 988 program, Samaritans Southcoast has earned a top ranking for responding to people dealing with mental health issues. Executive Director Darcy Lee spoke with Townsquare Sunday about the program's success and what its expanded role will look like.

Samaritans Southcoast’s Growing Role in the 988 Program

"You know that Samaritans Southcoast has served as the 988 hotline center for both Bristol and Norfolk Counties," Lee said. "However, we recently received the contract from the Mass. Department of Public Health to answer text and chat messages through the 988 number statewide."

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Samaritans Southcoast was selected from among five 988 hotline centers to provide the text and chat services.

What the Statewide Text and Chat Expansion Means

Lee said the additional role will bring about significant change for her agency. Samaritans Southcoast currently handles about 40,000 calls per year. She expects at least 500 text and chats per month looking for advice, information, or just someone to talk to.

Staffing and Implementation Timeline

Samaritans will also be expanding its staff by about 15 people to handle the increased volume. Lee said the text and chat program will be rolled out gradually, and fully implemented by October.

Lee said the changes will likely put more work on everybody's plate, but she said the organization is prepared for it. "We are in the middle of a strategic planning process right now as we take on this new project for text and chat, and we are looking at more expansion around our state," she said.

Why 988 Is Central to Suicide Prevention Efforts

"988 is the future of suicide prevention services. Why? It's an easier number to remember," she said. "We are working with local and national partners to provide community-coordinated services to anyone in a mental health crisis."

If you would like your nonprofit organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.