988 Lifeline
On the Road with a Lifesaving Resource

Summer in Georgia has arrived, which means busy roads and busy stores. Over the course of the next few months, travelers, vacationers and wanderers will be hitting convenience stores across the state.

And, there’s really no better time than the summer months to engage with customers on a lifesaving resource like the 988 Lifeline.

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Development Disabilities (DBHDD) is teaming up with the Georgia Association of Convenience Stores (GACS) to bring awareness of the 988 Lifeline in stores across Georgia to connect people to mental health care and resources. 
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Together we are ensuring that when someone is distressed, overwhelmed or in crisis, convenience store employees and customers are better equipped to handle these types of situations.

And 988 isn’t just for those in immediate crisis – it’s a line when someone just needs someone to talk to or a connection to local resources.
Who Can Use 988?
And this number is for more than just the individual needing immediate help.

When employees encounter someone who is distressed, overwhelmed or behaving unpredictably, there is an option beyond handling the situation alone or immediately calling 911.
By calling or texting 988, staff can connect instantly with trained mental health  professionals who:
  • Listen without judgment
  • Help de-escalate situations
  • Provide support and guidance
  • Connect individuals to local resources
Not every situation requires a law enforcement or medical emergency response – but instead licensed clinicians that can talk to the individual or come to them directly.
Stats that Matter
The 988 Lifeline has provided impactful results.
Georgia’s 988 call centers assess situations in real time and – when needed – dispatch a mobile crisis response team to provide in-person support.
In 2025, Georgia’s 988 system handled more than 350,000 calls, texts and chats, with over 21,000 mobile crisis responses annually — demonstrating a strong and active crisis system.
From Awareness to Action: Bringing 988 Into Stores
This summer, DBHDD and GACS are taking the next step — making 988 visible and accessible inside convenience stores across Georgia.

As part of this effort:
  • Window clings will be distributed at the GACS Summer Conference
  • Store owners and managers can place materials in storefronts, restrooms and checkout areas​
  • Businesses will have opportunities to partner with DBHDD on social and local media and community outreach
These simple tools ensure that when someone is struggling, help is clearly visible and immediately accessible.
​A Partnership with Purpose
This collaboration reflects a shared understanding: mental health impacts every industry and every community. Convenience stores are uniquely positioned to reach people in everyday moments — especially during the busy summer travel season. By meeting people where they are, DBHDD and GACS are strengthening Georgia’s crisis response system and expanding access to care.
Connect With Us This Summer
To hear more on this partnership, look for DBHDD Commissioner Kevin Tanner’s remarks during the GACS Summer Conference.

DBHDD staff will be on-site at the GACS Summer Conference, distributing materials and connecting directly with store owners and operators about how to get involved.
If you’re interested in bringing 988 awareness to your store, DBHDD will work with you to identify what fits best for your business and community.

Contact:
Kailyn Duesler
DBHDD Communications Manager
[email protected]
912-547-6976

Thank You to Our Partners
A special thank you to the Georgia Association of Convenience Stores for their partnership.
Together, we are building a stronger, safer and more supportive Georgia — one connection at a time.
Georgia Association of Convenience Stores.  All Rights Reserved.
200 East Memorial Drive, #1   Dallas, GA 30132
Phone: (770) 736-9723 | [email protected] | sitemap