Guns are a uniquely lethal method of suicide. In Missouri, six out of every 10 suicides involve a gun, with approximately 85 percent of attempts ending in death. Research shows that a person can think about suicide for an extended period, but the decision to act in a brief and vulnerable moment can happen in less than one hour. Having access to a gun at this time can determine whether someone lives or dies.
Organizations in our service area are invited to apply for funds to plan the development of a community-based, multi-sector, collaborative program that aims to reduce gun suicides in a population of interest. Groups will apply for planning grants to develop a program adapting or utilizing promising, evidence-based strategies.
Given the complex factors that impact suicide (economics, mental health, occupation, substance misuse, etc.) the applicant organization is expected to represent a group of organizations committed to collaborating and aligning around preventing gun suicide deaths in their community. Partners may include, but are not limited to, community health centers, hospitals, behavioral health centers, mental health centers, law enforcement, schools, prisons, faith-based organizations, trade associations, emergency medical services, gun shop owners, and other social service organizations.
Applications are due by April 13, 2020.
Contact: info@mffh.org.