FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New Signage Highlights 988 Phone Number Dedicated to Helping Those Experiencing a Life-Threatening Crisis  
 
BALTIMORE, MD (July 26, 2023) – The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration is raising awareness of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline with new signs at transit facilities throughout the system. The national three-digit number – 988 – launched in July of last year and is designed to offer support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide. Individuals can call, text or chat with trained counselors. 

“The new 988 signage will improve access to lifesaving counseling,” said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold. “We want to let anyone struggling with an emotional crisis to know that help is available.” 

Beginning this month, the agency is installing 988 signage at Light Rail stops and Metro Subway stations, then will expand to MARC stations. Signage also will be placed on local buses. The Maryland Transit Administration is undertaking this awareness campaign to help riders, non-riders and bystanders know that it is OK to reach out for help. When contacting 988, individuals will reach trained crises counselors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls and texts are free and confidential. The 988 number does not replace calling 911 for immediate medical and emergency situations.  

The Maryland Transit Administration is one of the largest multi-modal transit systems in the United States, operating Local Bus service, Commuter Bus, Light Rail, Metro Subway, MARC Train Service and a comprehensive Mobility paratransit system. The agency’s goal is to provide safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. To learn more, visit https://mta.maryland.gov, facebook.com/mtamaryland,  YouTube.com/TheMTAMaryland and follow us on Twitter @mtamaryland.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Paul Shepard
Office: 410-767-3935
Cell: 443-622-4181
pshepard@mdot.maryland.gov    

Veronica Battisti
Office: 410-767-8748 
Cell: 410-598-4168 
vbattisti@mdot.maryland.gov

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