Singing River Health System Foundation and Community Leaders Celebrate Mississippi Senate and House Resolutions Honoring Hope Squads at State Capitol
Yesterday, the Singing River Health System Foundation and community leaders joined Senator Jeremy England and Representative Kevin Felsher at the Mississippi State Capitol as they presented resolutions from both the Senate and House recognizing the 14 Hope Squads in Jackson County. The official resolutions highlight the vital role of Hope Squad’s peer-to-peer suicide prevention support in local schools.
The Hope Squad program empowers students to identify warning signs, offer support, and connect their peers with essential mental health resources. This impactful initiative is made possible through a collaborative effort by the Singing River Health System Foundation, Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, Chevron, Ingalls Shipbuilding, Mississippi Power, Navigator Credit Union, and Merchants & Marine Bank. These programs are now active in seven middle schools and seven high schools across Jackson County.
Laura Sessum, executive director of the Singing River Health System Foundation; Melissa Schnoor, community relations director; and Georgia Storey, executive director of government relations, attended the resolution alongside students, advisors, and school district leaders. Following the ceremony, a special luncheon provided students with the opportunity to share their experiences with legislators, further demonstrating the program’s profound impact on mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
“At Singing River, we understand that mental health is essential to overall well-being. Through our investment in Hope Squads, we are empowering students to support one another and creating a stronger, more resilient community.”
Laura Sessum, Executive Director of Singing River Health System Foundation
The Singing River Health System Foundation remains dedicated to advancing mental health initiatives, hosting community events, and supporting programs that provide essential resources for young people.
For more information about Hope Squad’s mission and purpose, please visit HopeSquad.com.