BOISE, Idaho — Robert Farias is an army combat veteran who has deployed to Iraq, now he is making it his mission to help his fellow veterans who are struggling with mental health issues.
Farias is using his business, 22-0 Real Estate at Keller Williams to raise money that will go to local non-profit veterans groups in an effort to prevent suicide among veterans.
"Part of our goal this year is we want to help fifty new people buy or sell a home," said Farias. "This will put us at our goal of donating $25,000.
Farias will give $500 for every home that he sells this year but along with giving money to veterans group Farias also wants to spread the message using statistics for veteran suicides.
"We have 22 active duty and veterans die from suicide each day, that's one every 65 minutes," said Farias. "75 percent are not receiving any medical or mental health care and veterans have 22 percent higher risk of committing suicide compared to civilians."
Idaho has a large population of veterans and the state ranks in the top ten in the country when it comes to suicide deaths by veterans, Farias hopes to connect struggling veterans with local groups that can help.
"Hopefully this can reach the right people and hopefully they can reach out to another veteran or the veteran can reach out themselves and figure out that they can get help," said Farias.
There is a 24/7, 365 day veteran crisis hotline as well, the number is 800-273-8255, veterans can also text 838255 or go to their website.
