Hometown Heroes this week features Jeff Winton, founder and head of Rural Minds, a Chautauqua County, NY-based organization dedicated to advocating for improved mental health services for rural America.

Winton was motivated by a tragedy in his own family to start Rural Minds, which urges action because mental illness is a growing epidemic, and the suicide rate is 65% higher in rural areas. Covid lockdowns and lack of good broadband internet service adds to feelings of isolation. There is hope and practical ways to encourage each other.