RALEIGH, N.C. (WECT) – The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services on Oct. 24 announced $2.9 million in federal funds for crisis counseling services to help people impacted by Hurricane Helene.

The funds will expand the Hope4NC initiative to recruit, hire and train counselors, therapists and certified peer support specialists in the 25 counties named major disaster areas after the storm.

“Approximately 1.8 million people live in these areas and were impacted by the storm that brought catastrophic damage on Sept. 26, 2024, and in the days following. Currently, first responders and volunteers experiencing stress or mental health crises can call the Hope4NC Helpline at 1-855-587-3463 24/7. The additional funding will expand the crisis response workforce to increase access to more people who are impacted by Hurricane Helene,” an NCDHHSS announcement states.

“There is no right or wrong way to feel when a disaster hits, and people will continue to experience the emotional impact long after the storm has passed,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “Helping western North Carolinians rebuild means also helping them heal — crisis counselors are critical to recovery efforts so people can get the care they need, when and where they need it.”

The counseling through Hope4NC will be free and anonymous for people impacted by the storm, similar to how it was after Hurricanes Matthew and Florence.

“Following training, crisis counselors will be available to connect survivors with recovery resources and to offer emotional and educational support. They will meet storm survivors wherever is most convenient, whether at home or in their community at a library, church, or other preferred location. The program is made possible by SAMHSA in partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” the announcement continues.

Copyright 2024 WECT. All rights reserved.