September 22, 2009

Washington, D.C.—Nevada Senator Harry Reid today announced a grant of $500,000 for the Nevada Department of Health and Humans Services Office of Suicide Prevention. This funding is a result of legislation that was championed by Senator Reid, The Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act, which provides funds for youth suicide prevention programs. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for 15-19 year olds in Nevada and Nevada has the 6th highest rate of suicide in the nation for youth ages 11 to 18.  These funds will help to address the serious problem of youth suicide in Nevada.

“Nevada’s suicide rate is far too high, especially among children and teenagers and this grant will go a long way toward helping the state of Nevada reach out to those at risk, “said Reid. “I remember the pain of my father’s suicide and I am dedicated to working toward a day when no one has to experience this tragedy.”