Firearms are the most used method of suicide in Johnson County and Kansas. They account for 59% of all suicide deaths in Kansas and 50% of all suicide deaths in Johnson County. The percentage is even higher among Veterans, as 77% of Veterans who die by suicide in Kansas use a firearm. 

However, many gun owners may not seek help or appropriate resources during mental health struggles due to stigma and misconceptions about firearm ownership and mental health. In a recent survey, over 70% of gun owners surveyed cited fear of losing their firearms as the top concern preventing them from seeking mental health services. 

The Secure and Protect Initiative works to promote responsible firearm ownership and increase mental health awareness in the gun-owning community. We partner with gun retailers, co-responders, law enforcement and trusted community partners to provide education, training, resources and safe storage options that reduce firearm-related crises and protect lives in Johnson County. 

1. Distributing gun safes to co-responders, law enforcement, clinicians and firearm retailers.
2. Piloting voluntary firearm storage through local gun shops as part of The Armory Project.
3. Offering training and education on suicide prevention and firearm culture to community professionals and organizations.
4. Providing mental health resources and materials to the gun-owning community.