During a recent Lake County government meeting, community leaders and residents voiced their appreciation for local health services and raised pressing concerns regarding mental health, veteran support, homelessness, and gun violence prevention.

Mark Pfister, a member of the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center governing council, was recognized for his contributions to mental health services. A speaker shared personal experiences of overcoming mental health challenges with the help of the department, highlighting the importance of accessible care.

Laura Franz and Tim Sashko from Lake County Veterans and Family Services discussed their ongoing efforts to combat the high veteran suicide rate, which stands at approximately 22 per day. They emphasized the significance of peer support and community connection through initiatives like coffee groups and the \"Vets in Need\" program, which assists veterans facing homelessness and financial difficulties. They also announced an upcoming fundraiser, the \"Ruck March,\" aimed at raising awareness and support for veterans in need.

Community member Rayon Edwards addressed the county board, expressing concerns about the treatment of individuals in housing and employment matters. He urged board members to prioritize the well-being of residents, warning against the dangers of neglecting these critical issues.

Clyde McLemore highlighted the visible increase in homelessness in Waukegan, urging the board to take action to address the growing crisis and its impact on local businesses and community safety.

Ashby Beasley, a mass shooting survivor, advocated for safe firearm storage awareness, citing alarming statistics about unintentional shootings and youth suicides linked to unsecured weapons. She called on the county board to issue a proclamation for a dedicated Safe Storage Awareness Day, encouraging open conversations about firearm safety in the community.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for continued dialogue and action on mental health, veteran support, homelessness, and gun violence prevention, reflecting the community's commitment to addressing these critical issues.