We can make a difference, together!
In 2024, our efforts will focus on raising funds for
Their primary mission:
to comfort and calm community members experiencing stress or crisis by providing a trained, compassionate listener 24 hours a day.
SEEING THE NEED, FINDING A WAY TO HELP
Concern Hotline was conceived in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned about the high suicide rate in Winchester. It was not only the highest in the state but was more than double the national average. Those concerned individuals – including Dr. Kic Kiczales, Patricia & Judge Henry Whiting, and Bettie Johnston – formed a task force to study the problem and develop a support service for people considering suicide. In April 1970, Concern Hotline went into service for the City of Winchester, as well as Frederick and Clarke counties. In 1978, the Northwestern Community Services Board awarded Concern Hotline the contract to provide 24-hour crisis intervention service to the City of Winchester and Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Shenandoah, and Page counties.
WHO IS SERVED AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Concern Hotline uses the slogan “Call us. We care.” because that’s exactly what they offer those in crisis. In 2020, the U.S. had one death by suicide about every 11 minutes, and suicide is the leading cause of death for people 10 to 34 years old.
Concern Hotline is a free resource available for people experiencing mental health crises, up to and including suicidal thoughts, and those worried about loved ones who need crisis support. When someone dials in, they are connected with a trained listener, 24 hours/7 days a week. Concern Hotline serves over 200,000 individuals in need. The goal is to provide help in that moment, give the caller hope for at least another day and hopefully point them in a direction that keeps them alive.
