The State Department of Veterans Affairs and others promote suicide prevention with 988 lifebuoy emblems.

The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs Suicide Prevention Team and other organizations will hold a ceremony in early November to mark the installation. 988 Lifeline Suicide Prevention License Plate Emblems about automobiles from the Washington Public Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC).

The move is part of an initiative to combat suicide among veterans, military personnel and their families in the state, according to a press release from the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. UTC has purchased approximately 40,988 Lifeline emblems, which symbolize support, solidarity and advocacy for suicide prevention. Each purchase contributes to a special fund.

The ceremony will take place at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 1 at UTC Washington headquarters located at 621 Woodland Square Loop Southeast in Lacey.

“We are deeply grateful to UTC for their unwavering commitment to suicide prevention,” WDVA Director David Puente said in a press release. “By decorating their vehicles with 988 Lifeline badges, they not only raise awareness, but also provide crucial support. Their leadership sets a powerful example for other agencies. Together we can make a significant difference in the lives of our veterans and their families.”

When Washingtonians purchase a 988 Lifeline Suicide Prevention logo, they are not only showing their support, but also contributing to a special fund. This fund provides community grants to organizations dedicated to suicide prevention through peer-to-peer support for transitioning veterans, military personnel and their families.

“We are pleased to participate in this initiative by incorporating these emblems into our UTC fleet,” UTC Executive Director and Secretary Geoff Killip said in a press release. “This demonstrates our unwavering solidarity with our veterans and service members, as well as our commitment to raising awareness of mental health. “Crisis Lifeline 988 serves as a beacon of hope for many, and we are honored to be a part of this initiative to make a difference in the lives of those in need.”

For more information, visit the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs website. Here.