RVBH receives $1.5M grant to enhance suicide, crisis hotline
RiverValley Behavioral Health (RVBH) has been awarded $1.5 million by the Kentucky Department of Behavioral Health to enhance the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline network.
The funding will enable the expansion of 24/7 chat and text services across Kentucky, improving access to critical mental health and crisis support for individuals throughout the state.
'RiverValley Behavioral Health submitted a strong proposal showcasing our deep expertise in crisis response, extensive resources and ability to scale services statewide,' said Dr. Wanda Figueroa, RVBH president and CEO. 'Our long-standing commitment to compassionate, high-quality crisis care positioned us as the right choice, and we are honored to be entrusted with this responsibility to serve the entire commonwealth.'
The Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental, and Intellectual Disabilities (DBHDID) issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to expand 988 crisis chat and text services across the state.
This funding was established to address the increasing demand for crisis support and ensure that every Kentuckian can access immediate, confidential mental health assistance through the communication method that feels most comfortable — phone, text, or chat.
Since the launch of 988 — the national three-digit mental health crisis line — in July 2022, the number of Kentuckians utilizing chat and text services has grown dramatically.
According to DBHDID, in the first year alone, texts surged by 160% (from 452 to 1,174) and chats increased by 138% (from 333 to 782).
By 2024, 988 texts and chats in Kentucky are projected to reach nearly 25,000 contacts — an average of 1,800 interactions per month.
Figueroa said RVBH was selected for this critical role because of its proven track record in providing high-quality, accessible crisis services, which includes more than 20 years as a trusted leader in mental health crisis response, its crisis services being accredited by CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities), and the launch of Kentucky's first 24/7 mobile mental health crisis team, among other factors.
Beyond crisis response, RVBH has experience providing statewide support services for problem gambling. It was selected by the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling to operate the statewide problem gambling helpline, further proving its ability to deliver specialized mental health support at a statewide level.
'Our ability to quickly adapt to emerging needs also played a key role in our selection,' Figueroa said. 'We have seen a significant shift in how people seek help, particularly among younger individuals, who increasingly prefer text and chat over phone calls. These platforms provide a greater sense of privacy, security, and accessibility, making it easier for individuals to reach out for support. Because of our existing infrastructure, experienced staff, and commitment to meeting people where they are, we were well-prepared to take on this essential role for the entire state.
'Most importantly, this opportunity would not have been possible without our incredible Crisis Support Team. Their compassion, dedication and expertise form the foundation of the high-quality, lifesaving care we provide every day. It is their excellence that will drive this program forward.'
RVBH will continue to operate its own crisis line while also taking on this expanded role as Kentucky's statewide 988 chat and text responder.
The additional funding will allow RVBH to hire and train 15 new staff members, ensuring that every chat and text through 988 is answered by highly trained professionals equipped to support individuals in crisis.
'To support this new initiative, we will create a dedicated unit within our crisis team that will focus specifically on 988 chat and text services,' Figueroa said. 'This means that our existing crisis line services will not be affected — instead, this is an opportunity to enhance and expand access for people who prefer to reach out through text or chat.
'Our crisis responders will receive specialized training in how to effectively support and engage with individuals seeking help through digital communication. Responding to a crisis via text is different from a phone call, and we are committed to ensuring our team is fully equipped to provide the best care possible. By adding this service, we are giving more people in Kentucky more ways to access help — when they need it, how they need it.'
Figueroa said there are several key factors that have contributed to the increase in 988 crisis calls, texts, and chats, including increased awareness and accessibility, youth and digital communication preferences, economic and social stress, loneliness and isolation and substance use and co-occurring disorders.
'This grant is about more than just expanding services — it's about saving lives,' she said. 'It ensures that every Kentuckian, no matter where they live, has access to immediate, professional mental health support when they need it most.
'I want to acknowledge the Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental, and Intellectual Disabilities (DBHDID) for their leadership in expanding crisis services and setting a national example in making mental health care more accessible. Their dedication to breaking down barriers to care is truly making a meaningful difference in people's lives.'
Figueroa said the initiative will be led by Michelle Nobles, RVBH vice president of outpatient and crisis services, and Dr. Lionel Phelps, RVBH vice president of population health.
She said their leadership, expertise and dedication will ensure that RVBH's team continues to provide the highest level of care to those in need.
'We recognize the critical role that mental health and crisis services play in the well-being of our communities,' Nobles said. 'This funding will allow us to provide immediate, compassionate, and locally focused care for individuals in distress. We're proud to be part of Kentucky's commitment to mental health, and we're ready to ensure that every person who reaches out to 988 receives the support they deserve, from highly trained professionals right here in the commonwealth.'
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