News Flash

Liberty Lake’s Mayor Cris Kaminskas added the first 988 Lifeline emblem to the license plate of a city vehicle on March 25, leading off an appreciation gathering with the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs’ Suicide Prevention Team that recognized Liberty Lake for its support of suicide prevention efforts.

The City of Liberty Lake purchased 75 adhesive emblems that promote the message “988 Lifeline – There Is Hope!” that are being added to the license plates of the city’s fleet of police cars, maintenance trucks, and other vehicles.  The emblems are designed to raise awareness about the national 988 phone number that offers suicide prevention and crisis support.

After Mayor Kaminskas placed the initial sticker on one of the vehicles, representatives from the Washington Dept. of Veterans Affairs expressed their gratitude to the city for its leadership in the fight against suicide and for setting a strong example for other municipalities.  This included presenting a certificate of appreciation to the mayor that reads:

“On behalf of your Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs, thank you for helping increase awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and bringing hope to communities across our state!  It is because of the commitment of individuals, partner organizations, and communities like yours that Washington state is recognized for “Serving Those Who Served!”

Supplementing the occasion further, U.S. Marine Corps veteran Andrea Yager, owner of Adorkable Flowers and Gifts, presented an arrangement of flowers for the LLPD.  Additionally, U.S. Army veteran Jeremy Staples, co-owner of Just Chillin’ Eats & Sweets, was on hand to deliver three cheesecakes as an expression of appreciation for the city’s police staff.

“By displaying the ‘988 Lifeline – There Is Hope’ emblems on their vehicles, the City of Liberty Lake is increasing awareness and demonstrating strong support for our veterans, services members, and their families,” provided Washington Dept. of Veterans Affairs director David Puente Jr. in a statement.  “This impactful initiative plays a key role in raising crucial funds for community-based grants aimed at preventing suicide.  Through collective effort, we can foster a safer, more compassionate environment and make a lasting difference in saving lives.”

All proceeds from purchases of the 988 Lifeline license plate emblems go toward community-based suicide prevention services for military service members, veterans, and their families.  More information about the 988 Lifeline emblem program is available at www.dva.wa.gov/suicidepreventionemblem.