The 988 Lifeline Partnership
Through a partnership with WellSpace Health, Republic FC supports the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—ensuring access to help is visible and accessible. In 2023, over 3,000 jerseys were distributed in Sacramento and beyond to raise awareness. The 988 patch continues to be proudly displayed on all first team, academy, and retail jerseys in 2024 and beyond, reinforcing the club’s ongoing commitment to mental wellness in the community.
Who’s It For?
988 offers free, confidential support for anyone facing thoughts of suicide, a mental health or substance use crisis, or emotional distress. Counselors also support friends and family members seeking help for a loved one. Help is available in English, Spanish, and over 240 other languages through interpreter services.
How It Works?
988 connects people to trained counselors 24/7 by phone, text, or online chat. In Sacramento, calls are handled by WellSpace Health, which also brings mental health resources to schools and community groups. Callers are guided to the right support, including local crisis centers, with options for veterans and Spanish speakers. Counselors listen, provide help, and only involve emergency services when absolutely necessary.
The Impact
Suicide is a leading cause of death among young people and claims more lives in the U.S. each year than car accidents, homicide, or AIDS. The 988 Lifeline has helped over 20 million people find support in times of crisis.
Creating Safe Spaces for Open Conversations
What is a Buddy Bench?
The Buddy Bench is a simple, powerful way to encourage peer support and meaningful conversation among students. When a student sits on the bench, it signals to others that they’re feeling lonely or in need of a friend—creating a safe, visible way to foster kindness and connection on campus.
How Republic FC Supports Local Schools
Republic FC partners with local schools to donate and install Buddy Benches across the Sacramento region. Each bench includes a message of inclusion and support, and the club works with educators to ensure students understand its purpose—empowering young people to look out for one another and build a stronger, more connected school community.
Get Involved: Help Us Build More Buddy Benches
Your support can make a real difference in creating a more inclusive, supportive environment for children. By donating, you’ll directly help us place more Buddy Benches in schools across the region, providing a safe space for students to connect and support each other.
Donate Today: Every donation helps fund the installation and upkeep of Buddy Benches, giving children a place where they can feel seen, heard, and supported. Your contribution goes directly to placing more benches in schools that need them.
Know a School in Need?: If you know of a school that could benefit from a Buddy Bench, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at community@sacrepublicfc.com to suggest a school, and we’ll work together to bring a Buddy Bench to their campus.
