September 8th is 988 Day — a day dedicated to raising awareness about the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the lifesaving role it plays in connecting people to support.

Since its launch in July 2022, 988 has transformed crisis care in the United States. By replacing the longer 1-800-273-TALK line with a simple, three-digit number, access to help became faster, easier, and more widely recognized. In its first year alone, call volume increased by nearly 40% nationwide, with close to 5 million people reaching out for help. Calls are answered more quickly than ever — with average wait times down to 21 seconds — and the majority are handled right in-state.

Community Health Alliance: Your Local 988 Center

Here in Ohio, Community Health Alliance proudly operates one of the state’s 19 988 call centers. Every day, our trained Hotline team provides judgment-free, 24/7 support to individuals and families in crisis. Their dedication reflects the very spirit of 988: a direct connection to hope, help, and healing.

Our Hotline team has achieved incredible milestones:

• Over 1,700 calls answered each month, with numbers continuing to rise.

• 96% answer rate, far exceeding the 90% target.

• Average response time of just 12.1 seconds, faster than the 20-second goal.

• 100% of calls answered locally, without relying on national backup.

These outcomes are more than numbers — they represent lives touched, crises de-escalated, and people reminded that they are not alone.

Executive Director, Rebecca Dickerscheid,  shared with our staff:

“988 is more than just a number—it’s a promise that help is only a call or text away. Every role in our organization—whether clinical, administrative, supportive, or leadership—contributes to building a community where people know they are not alone. The compassion, professionalism, and dedication you bring to this mission reflect the same spirit that 988 represents.”

We join her in extending deep gratitude to our Hotline team for their unwavering professionalism and care. Their work ensures that when someone in our community reaches out, their call is met with compassion, skill, and immediate support.

Spreading the Word

Today, our community will also hear this message on Q102 (WKRQ):

“Today is September 8th—988 Day. 988 is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, providing judgment-free support 24/7. Community Health Alliance proudly operates your local 988 call center, connecting our community to hope, help and support when you need it most.”

On Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we are encouraging awareness and reminding everyone: 988 is here for you, 24/7. Whether you are struggling yourself or supporting someone else, help is only three digits away.

Moving Forward Together

988 has already shown its power to expand access and save lives — and we are proud to play a part in this national effort. On this 988 Day, we celebrate progress, honor the incredible people who make it possible, and recommit ourselves to building a safer, stronger community where no one has to face crisis alone.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.