Mesa County Public Health was awarded the Veterans Affairs’ Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant, a $733,400, one-year federal grant.

Mesa County Public Health said in a news release it plans to launch a new initiative for local veterans called the Tri-County Veteran Support Hub. It is a comprehensive, community-based initiative designed to reduce suicide risk, improve mental well-being and strengthen social connectedness. It will address a critical deficit in mental-health support for veterans and their families across Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties.

According to the news release, the Tri-County Veteran Support Hub will connect veterans with peer mentors, fellow veterans who understand military life. Instead of exam rooms, support will take place in natural, relaxed environments where trust comes naturally.

Mesa County Public Health will partner with two organizations from neighboring communities, Sovereign Roots: Veterans Retreat and Kadkhodaian Behavioral Health Center.