Local leaders discuss how 988 line aids Monroe County in mental health crises

Assemblywoman Sarah Clark and Sen. Samra Brouk's office held a press conference highlighting the 988 crisis line's effectiveness.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Local lawmakers in Monroe County, New York, held a press conference and roundtable discussion to spotlight the community's mental health needs and the effectiveness of the 988 crisis line. The 988 line helps identify who needs assistance, what they need help with, and how they are getting it. The discussion was held in partnership with Common Ground Health, which recently issued a Behavioral Health Needs Assessment for the county.

Why it matters

The 988 crisis line is a critical resource for individuals experiencing mental health struggles, emotional distress, or substance abuse issues. By highlighting its effectiveness, local leaders aim to raise awareness and encourage utilization of the service to better support the mental health needs of the Monroe County community.

The details

The press conference and roundtable discussion were organized by Assemblywoman Sarah Clark and the office of Sen. Samra Brouk. Speakers emphasized that the 988 line is intended to be a crisis hotline, not just a suicide hotline, allowing people to get help before their situation escalates. The discussion was held in partnership with Common Ground Health, which recently issued a Behavioral Health Needs Assessment for Monroe County to identify the most pressing mental health and substance-related needs in the community and find ways to improve services and coordination.

  • The Behavioral Health Needs Assessment was issued by Common Ground Health in 2025.
  • The press conference and roundtable discussion were held on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Assemblywoman Sarah Clark

A local lawmaker who organized the press conference and roundtable discussion.

Sen. Samra Brouk

A local lawmaker whose office participated in organizing the event.

Jennifer Lake

The president and CEO of Goodwill of the Finger Lakes, who spoke about the intentions behind the 988 crisis line.

Common Ground Health

A local health organization that issued the Behavioral Health Needs Assessment and partnered on the roundtable discussion.

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What they’re saying

“One of the intentions behind 988 – being not just a suicide hotline, but also a crisis hotline. So when you feel yourself needing some additional assistance, when you are starting to have those early warning signs, you can reach out and get help before it escalates.”

— Jennifer Lake, President and CEO of Goodwill of the Finger Lakes

What’s next

The goal of the Behavioral Health Needs Assessment was to find ways to improve services, resources, and coordination across the local behavioral health system in Monroe County. The roundtable discussion was a step towards addressing those needs and identifying how the 988 crisis line can be better utilized to support the community.

The takeaway

The 988 crisis line is a crucial resource for individuals in Monroe County experiencing mental health crises, emotional distress, or substance abuse issues. By highlighting its effectiveness and the broader mental health needs of the community, local leaders aim to raise awareness and encourage utilization of the service to better support those struggling with their mental health.