Colorado Attorney General Cynthia Coffman was in Pueblo last week to announce two new statewide initiatives to combat the growing issue of youth suicide. Pueblo will be involved in both programs funded by the attorney general’s office.

One program is called Sources of Strength, to receive $200,000 in funding that will allow up to 40 schools – including some in Pueblo yet to be named – to participate in best practices that have been successful in preventing youth suicide. Coffman said the program is designed to harness the power of peer networks to change unhealthy norms and culture, ultimately preventing suicide, bullying and substance abuse.

Sources of Strength promotes connections between specially trained peers and caring adults, emphasizing that it’s acceptable to seek help and teaching kids resiliency and coping skills.

Read more at The Pueblo Chieftain.