Seven prominent shopping center owners launched the Signs of Hope initiative on World Mental Health Day in 2023 to help promote the resources available to those in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. — Courtesy: Levin Management Corp.
By Joshua Burd
Levin Management Corp. has joined the Signs of Hope initiative, a national campaign to help promote the resources available to those in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
The real estate services firm, which is based in North Plainfield, said it recently installed reflective, exterior signs in busy shopping center parking lots throughout its third-party leasing and management portfolio to promote the availability of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or 988 Lifeline. The move is part of an initiative by retail landlords, 988 Lifeline and its administrator, Vibrant Emotional Health, to post more than 8,400 Signs of Hope across some 1,600 properties across the country, seeking to highlight a service that offers free and confidential emotional support 24/7 to those in suicidal crisis or emotional distress via phone, text and chat.
“At Levin, we are deeply committed to supporting the communities where our shopping centers are located,” said Melissa Sievwright, vice president of marketing. “Mental health is one of the most pressing issues of our time, yet too often, those in crisis don’t know where to turn. By participating in the Signs of Hope initiative, we aim to raise awareness and provide a clear path to potentially lifesaving support for those who need it most.”
The 988 Lifeline has a national network of more than 200 crisis centers, combining local care and resources with national standards and best practices, according to a news release. Seven property owners — Brixmor, Kimco Realty, Kite, Peterson Cos., Regency Centers, Sterling Organization and Urban Edge Properties — launched the Signs of Hope initiative on World Mental Health Day in 2023, subsequently drawing participation from LMC and several other organizations, which also include Continental Realty Corp., ShopCore Properties, ShopOne Centers and Phillips Edison & Co.
