Local teen raising funds to decrease veteran suicide rates

(HIDDEN VALLEY, Ind.) – A Hidden Valley teen is putting a foot forward when it comes to the mental health of veterans. 

19-year-old Alainah Long is going to walk 62 miles in July to raise funds for the Stop Soldier Suicide nonprofit.

The Stop Soldier Suicide initiative hopes to substantially reduce veteran suicide rates by 2030. 

Long says this is a cause near to her due to personal experiences, and something she hopes to make a proactive difference about.

“My main inspiration is a loved one of mine who has struggled with mental health ever since they left the Army. I have seen the issues veterans face after they are out of the service,” she told The 812. 

She added, “We aren’t doing enough to serve those who fought for us.”

Alainah is currently fundraising and in return for any donations she will walk 62 miles in and around Dearborn County. 

“I have already raised $544 dollars but I KNOW I can do more. Our government doesn’t do enough for our veterans, please I would greatly appreciate this,” she said.

You can access the fundraiser by clicking this link.