Peace Garden News

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation concluded its second season of the Shut Out the Stigma initiative in March. This program supports mental health awareness and contributes donations based on the saves made by goalies from various hockey teams, including the Bismarck Bobcats, Fargo Force, Minot Minotauros, and the UND Fighting Hawks. The Foundation partnered with FirstLink to directly aid mental health and crisis intervention services.

Jennifer Illich, the executive director of FirstLink, expressed gratitude for the partnership, stating, “We are incredibly grateful to the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation for choosing FirstLink as its partner for this season's exciting Shut Out the Stigma initiative! Thanks to every save and the Caring Foundation's support, the money raised will empower FirstLink to answer hundreds of local life-saving calls, chats and texts to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.” She emphasized that the donation supports FirstLink’s mission of connecting those in need with help and hope.

The initiative will enable FirstLink to support over 750 life-saving phone calls. Amber Blomberg, BCBSND Caring Foundation's executive director, noted the importance of mental health. She stated, "Mental health is a critical issue that affects us all. Through this initiative, we aim to bring much-needed awareness and support to this cause." She also highlighted that the collaboration with FirstLink and local hockey teams helps foster a culture of openness and support around mental health.

Looking ahead, the third annual Strike Out the Stigma campaign in July will involve baseball teams across North Dakota. Teams like the Badlands Big Sticks, Bismarck Larks, FM Redhawks, Minot Honey Bees, and Minot Hot Tots will partner to support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Established in 1989, the BCBSND Caring Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization focusing on key health issues to improve the health and well-being of North Dakotans. The Foundation collaborates with grantees to promote sustainable non-profit outcomes and create lasting change.