(Picture caption: Applications for the 2022 Le Va Pasifika Suicide Prevention Community Fund are now open.)
Raising awareness, breaking down stigma, increasing connection and responding compassionately can save lives.
Evidence suggests local grassroots projects like those supported by Le Va's Pasifika Suicide Prevention Community Fund play an important role in helping to prevent suicide.
Since 2019, the Pasifika Suicide Prevention Community Fund has funded 33 Pasifika-led organisations and community groups.
Seventeen regions across Aotearoa New Zealand have been impacted by initiatives and projects in the community, with the aim of strengthening social cohesion towards preventing suicide.
Every year hundreds of people die by suicide in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Both Māori and Pasifika populations continue to be disproportionally affected by high suicide rates.
One in five people who die by suicide are Māori, rates of youth suicide are two-and-a-half times higher for Māori youth compared to non-Māori youth, and there is growing concern on how suicide is affecting Pasifika communities.
The 2022 Le Va Pasifika Suicide Prevention Community Fund has recently opened, for those passionate about mental health and have an idea, project, or programme with an aim to prevent suicide in our Pasifika communities.
Visit Suicide Prevention Fund - Le Va to apply by May 6, 2022.