On February 25, 2025, Robert Luna had the honor of standing in the heart of Georgia’s capital, Atlanta, fiercely advocating for Military Veterans' mental health. He was surrounded by 15 incredibly driven, brilliant professionals—people who have dedicated their lives to making a difference. Together, we met with Senators and Congress members, pushing for a life-saving piece of legislation: Donna’s Law – SB 224.
This bill is more than just a piece of policy; it’s a lifeline. Donna’s Law offers a voluntary and reversible self-defense mechanism against suicide. It empowers individuals to take control of their own safety, allowing Georgians to temporarily suspend their right to purchase a firearm if they feel at risk. In 2023, firearms were tragically involved in 67% of suicide deaths. This bill isn’t just necessary; it’s urgent. It gives people the chance to pause, to save their own lives in their darkest moments.
But that’s not all. We are also fighting for $1.3 million in funding to launch four pilot programs for the Hope Institute Model, a revolutionary approach to suicide prevention. The Hope Institute Model is a game-changer. It redefines care for individuals at risk of suicide. Instead of sending them to emergency rooms, subjecting them to the trauma of hospitalization, it offers outpatient care that’s more effective, less damaging, and significantly more cost-efficient. This model is already showing incredible results. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) adopted it in October 2023, and within just six months, the demand soared as outcomes surpassed expectations. The recidivism rates plummeted. The results were nothing short of extraordinary. This model works. And now, it’s time to bring it to every community in Georgia.
