Crisis counseling available for county flood victims

The Indiana Family Social Services Administration's (FSSA) Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA) received a Crisis Counseling Grant last week through the Indiana Department of Homeland Security.

The grant will assist Indiana residents impacted by the floods under the FEMA 1740 disaster declaration. It will provide free crisis counseling services through community outreach, public education and through information and referral.

"It is vital that Hoosiers receive the help and assistance they need to deal with the stress of coping with a natural disaster," said DMHA Director, Cathy Boggs. "It is our hope that this grant will assist those affected in moving forward."

Crisis counselors are on hand to listen and help residents cope with the effects that this disaster has had on their lives. The counselors are readily available to help adults, senior citizens, children and people with special needs cope with the stress and anxiety related to the ongoing flooding throughout the state. There are no medical or financial screening methods to qualify for the services.

The Crisis Counseling Grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and facilitated with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The project is administered by the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction with 100 percent federal funds.

Crisis counselors are accessible in the following counties: Carroll, Tippecanoe, White, St. Joseph, Cass, Pulaski, Jasper, Fulton, and Marshall. For around the clock assistance, call 1-866-679-4631 or visit www.indianaprojectaftermath. org.