Chautauqua County will receive part of $196,000 in state funding for 14 Suicide Prevention Coalition groups.

The three-year award funding will support coalition projects that target five key suicide prevention areas for New York state: means reduction, high risk populations, loss and attempt survivors, men in the middle years, and education and awareness.

The Chautauqua County money is targeted for education and awareness of services available for men in their middle years, young people, LGBTQ, elderly veterans, law enforcement, community organizations and the faith community.

“The Suicide Prevention Coalitions are critical when it comes to community awareness and involvement,” said Dr. Ann Sullivan, sate Office of Mental Health commissioner. “They organize and educate New York communities while making significant strides in prevention efforts in high risk populations. We are committed to supporting their efforts and are eager to see these awards in action.”

New York state has more than 50 suicide prevention coalitions, each with its own set of tools and resources specific to its geographic location. The coalitions work to raise awareness and mobilize community action in response to suicide.