MS HR32

Commends and recognizes 14 Hope Squad programs across Jackson County, Mississippi middle and high schools that provide peer-to-peer suicide prevention training.

Hope Squad consists of 203 students nominated by peers for kind and trustworthy reputations, trained in QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention methodology.

Programs were introduced in 2023 by teen suicide survivor Emma Benoit and funded by Singing River Health Foundation and corporate partners including Chevron, Ingalls Shipbuilding, and Mississippi Power.

Hope Squads conduct school-wide activities including Hope 'Grams, Hope Chains, Hope Trees, and Cultivating Calmness events to promote mental well-being and inclusive school environments.

Designates the Jackson County Hope Squad model as an exemplary initiative that can serve as a blueprint for expanding peer-to-peer suicide prevention programs statewide.