The Brandon & Area Suicide Prevention Implementation Network (SPIN) is a network of community people working together to promote wellness and reduce the risk of suicide. There are over 30 agencies involved, as well as other volunteers with personal lived experience or those that have been affected by a suicide. Our goals are to build resilience and mental well-being; promote awareness about suicide; increase suicide intervention training to identify people at risk; enhance awareness of crisis services and community resources; encourage people in distress to seek help; and provide support to those bereaved by suicide.
SPIN is thrilled to be the recipient of funds of a “Round Up” your bill promotion at both Smitty’s Restaurants in Brandon. Smitty’s manager, Ivale Crooks, approached SPIN last fall wanting to donate funds locally and bring more awareness to the work that is being done in Brandon regarding suicide prevention. This promotion started in November on International Survivors of Suicide Loss day and customers have the option of rounding up their bill to help out SPIN for the next year. The funds generated will help with ongoing suicide awareness training, such as safeTALK, a 3 hour free program that teaches members of the community to recognize persons with thoughts of suicide and to connect them to suicide first-aid resources. Donations will also assist with the development of resources, educational events, lending library, and monthly suicide bereavement support groups.
Please go to our website spinbrandon.ca or follow SPIN Facebook, twitter, Instagram for updates and information on upcoming community awareness events such as Headstrong youth anti-stigma summit and World Suicide Prevention Day. If anyone is interested in training opportunities, volunteering with SPIN, or require information on suicide bereavement, please contact SPIN at 204-578-2599 or info@spinbrandon.ca
If you or someone you know is currently struggling, please contact Westman Crisis Services at 1-888-379-7699 or Manitoba Suicide Prevention & Support Line at 1-877-435-7170.
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