Batavia proclaims September Suicide Prevention Month; local lifeline center outlines services

Mayor Jeffrey D. Schilke and the Batavia City Council proclaimed September 2025 as Suicide Prevention and Action Month, recognizing national statistics and local resources and encouraging residents to seek help and reduce stigma.

The proclamation cited Centers for Disease Control and Prevention figures noting more than 49,000 Americans died by suicide in 2023 and highlighted the national 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. The council adopted the proclamation by roll call (12 yes, 2 absent).

Representatives from Suicide Prevention Service of America (SPS America), based in Batavia, addressed the council after the proclamation. Stephanie Dowinski, associate executive director, described SPS America’s local services, including 24/7 phone lifeline counseling, depression screening, prevention training, school‑based counseling and support groups for survivors and attempt survivors. She said the local center picks up 988 calls for several counties and fields roughly 500 calls per month at the center.

Dowinski emphasized that talking about suicide does not put the idea into someone’s head and that most people who die by suicide show warning signs beforehand. She described SPS America’s work with schools (including classroom education on emotional regulation), businesses and families, and noted the agency’s counseling scholarship program for clients who cannot pay. She also provided the organization’s contact information: (630) 482‑9699 and info@spsamerica.org, and noted the local office at 528 South Batavia Avenue.

Council members and the mayor praised the organization’s work and encouraged residents to use 988 and local services. One alderman recounted the personal impact of suicide within a family and said ongoing community attention and resources are essential.

The council also acknowledged a local Here for Life walk organized by SPS America on Sept. 13 in Potawatomi Park, St. Charles, to raise awareness and funds.