Rally of Hope highlights suicide prevention in south Laredo

Local organizations and city officials gathered to promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A Rally of Hope was organized in south Laredo by the Laredo Public Health Department, Laredo Police Department's Mental Health Evaluation Unit, and the Laredo Suicide Prevention Committee to raise awareness about suicide prevention and encourage residents to use the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Participants held signs displaying resources and messages of support as cars drove past the intersection of Lomas del Sur Boulevard and South Ejido Avenue.

Why it matters

Suicide prevention is a critical public health issue, and the Rally of Hope aimed to destigmatize mental health challenges and connect residents in south Laredo, an area that has seen a high volume of crisis calls, with vital resources and support.

The details

The rally featured local officials and organizations, including Mayor Pro Tem Gilbert Gonzalez, Laredo Police Chief Miguel Rodriguez Jr., and District III Councilmember Melissa Cigarroa. Participants held signs with the 988 crisis line number, as well as encouraging messages like 'You are enough' and 'Stop the stigma.' The Area Health Education Center said it continues to promote the rally as a reminder that residents are not alone in facing mental health challenges.

  • The Rally of Hope took place on Friday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Laredo Public Health Department

The local public health agency that organized the Rally of Hope.

Laredo Police Department's Mental Health Evaluation Unit

A unit within the Laredo Police Department that participated in the rally.

Laredo Suicide Prevention Committee

A local committee that collaborated with the Laredo Public Health Department and Laredo Police Department to organize the Rally of Hope.

Gilbert Gonzalez

The Mayor Pro Tem and District I Councilmember who attended the rally.

Miguel Rodriguez Jr.

The Laredo Police Chief who attended the rally.

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What they’re saying

“We remind the community that help is available.”

— Laredo Police Department (lmtonline.com)

“Someone is always here for you. You matter. Your life matters.”

— Area Health Education Center (lmtonline.com)

The takeaway

The Rally of Hope in south Laredo was a community-driven effort to raise awareness about suicide prevention, destigmatize mental health challenges, and connect residents with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a vital resource for those struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health crises.