RALEIGH, NC (WECT) – The NC Department of Health and Human Services announced on October 24 $2.9 million in federal funding 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 25 counties named major disaster areas after the storm.

“Approximately 1.8 million people live in these areas and were affected by the storm that caused major damage on September 26, 2024 and beyond. Currently, first responders and volunteers experiencing stress or a mental health crisis can seek emergency care. Hope4NC Helpline 24/7 at 1-855-587-3463. An NCDHHSS announcement states the additional funding will expand the crisis response workforce to increase outreach to more people impacted by Hurricane Helene.

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

Counseling through Hope4NC will be free and anonymous for people affected by the storm, as it was after Hurricanes Matthew and Florence.

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

Copyright 2024 WECT. All rights reserved.