NJ Transit military group unveils buses with a message of hope for veterans in need

Two NJ Transit buses hit the streets this month printed with a life-saving message pointing people to the national suicide prevention hotline.

The buses were publicly unveiled Monday morning at a ceremony at Newark Penn Station to recognize National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. One of the buses features a message aimed at veterans, reminding them: “Your country still needs you.”

Both buses feature the nationwide toll-free hotline 988, which provides immediate help and information for veterans to those experiencing suicidal thoughts.

In 2020, the latest year for which statistics are available, 679 people died by suicide in New Jersey, according to the state Department of Health, a higher number than the 587 people who died in traffic accidents that year.

Among the people who committed suicide this year, 58 were veterans, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

“NJ Transit is honored to support National Suicide Prevention Month and highlight important resources that can save lives, especially for veterans who face unique challenges,” said NJ Transit CEO Kevin Corbett, who also served in the U.S. Navy. “With this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to the well-being of our customers, employees and the broader community.”

The bus graphics were commissioned by Military to Mobility, the new NJ Transit Military Company Employee Resource Group. One of the buses will serve North Jersey and the other will serve South Jersey.

The group Military to Mobility commissioned the scarves to show their support for fellow service members and veterans who may be struggling to cope with their military experiences.

“We have made great strides in the United States in reducing the stigma of mental illness, including among our veterans. But one suicide death is one too many,” said Fran O'Connor, state transportation commissioner and NJ Transit board chair. “I am proud of NJ Transit's campaign to raise awareness of mental health issues for our customers, our brave veterans and our employees, and to support suicide prevention. There is help.”

If you or someone you love is having suicidal thoughts: Call, text or chat 988 at 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.