Local nonprofit 2TUFF-2TALK raises funds and awareness for construction worker suicide prevention

ROSSFORD, Ohio (WTVG) – Leaders of a local non-profit organization, 2TUFF2TALK, are raising awareness of the high number of suicides in the construction industry. On Saturday, the organization held its first fundraiser in Rossford.

2TUFF2TALK t helps unionized construction workers and their families in Northwest Ohio deal with mental health issues and the mental health system, because according to Board Chair Babette Burnett, the construction industry has some of the highest suicide rates.

“If you think about it, a lot of them are veterans, so we already have this high suicide rate,” Burnett said. “So we’re going to say 58% of suicides are male, and 51% are firearms which we all know a lot of are hunters.”

In fact, according to the construction industry alliance for suicide prevention (CIASP), the number of suicides among construction workers is 3.5 times higher than the national average.

“I lost a friend to suicide three or four years ago,” said volunteer Randy Hayes. “I’ve been thinking about my friend all day.”

Burnett tells 13abc that the work of his nonprofit can continue following the success of Saturday’s Clash of the Contractor fundraiser.

“In fact, construction workers came to thank us and said, ‘we needed it.’ So we’re opening those doors,” Burnett said.

If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, the suicide and crisis hotline reachable 24 hours a day on 988.

To learn more about 2TUFF2TALK, or to donate to the association, Click here.

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