BSO PARTNERS WITH BRIGHTLINE ON MENTAL HEALTH

Mental health crisis accounts for 75 percent of train related incidents, according to Brightline. In order to bring awareness to this growing epidemic, the Broward Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with Brightline and several community partners, will join forces Tuesday, Jan. 21 to discuss the importance of mental health and ways individuals can seek assistance.

“Public safety is of paramount concern to the residents and businesses of Oakland Park,” Mayor Matthew Sparks said. “Our City Commission is supportive of initiatives to address mental health issues and help people in need of assistance.”

The event will kick off with a joint news conference held in front of the Oakland Park City Hall, followed by an educational walk. BSO, Brightline and community partners will distribute educational materials, as well as rail safety pledges, to businesses along the Oakland Park corridor. The walk will begin at the Funky Buddha restaurant located at 1201 N.E. 38th St. and end just north of Peter Pan Diner at 1216 E. Oakland Park Blvd. 

Brightline will also provide free haircuts throughout the event via their Buzz Boxx mobile barbershop. 

PARTICIPATING PARTNERS: Florida Operation Lifesaver, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Mental Health America (MHA), Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention (FISP), 211 Helpline in Palm Beach and United Way of Broward