In the wake of the destructive tornados that struck Missouri on May 16, the state is mobilizing resources to support survivors grappling with the psychological aftermath. The Show Me Hope Crisis Counseling Program (CCP), backed by a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), aims to provide mental health services to those affected in the St. Louis and Sikeston areas. According to the Department of Mental Health (DMH), the program focuses on fostering resilience through teaching coping and stress management skills, and distributing educational materials.
With numerous Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs) involved, such as Bootheel Behavioral Health, BJC Behavioral Health, and Places for People, the response is a concerted effort across multiple organizations. The St. Louis Health Department, alongside partners like Freedom Community Center and InPower Institute, are also part of this initiative. As the disaster, acknowledged as FEMA 4877, extends its reach, residents in Scott County, St. Louis County, and City of St. Louis have been assured access to these critical services.
Crisis counselors from the Show Me Hope initiative are stepping up to connect survivors with much-needed mental health resources locally. Moreover, any Missourian finding themselves battling stress or emotional strain from the disaster can seek help via the Disaster Distress Helpline by calling or texting 1-800-985-5990, available around the clock. The CCP's objective is to touch the lives of many people impacted by disasters by providing immediate assistance, identifying survivors' needs, and fostering a sense of community resilience and recovery.
The outreach provided by CCP is a multifaceted approach. It includes face-to-face interactions in shelters and communities, assessments of survivors' emotional states, referrals to mental health services, and the development of lasting partnerships with local organizations, the DMH outlines. In an effort to ensure the quality of services and validate the program's efforts, they also engage in the collection and evaluation of data. For those seeking local assistance, contact information for Show Me Hope CMHC is readily available, spanning various support centers within the affected counties.
For individuals and families in need, the following contact points offer specialized support: Bootheel Behavioral Health in Scott County at 573-471-0800, BJC Behavioral Health in St. Louis County at 314-747-7491, People’s Health Center for children under 18 in St. Louis City at 314-367-7848, and Places for People assisting the uninsured and unhoused at 314-535-5600. Women and families can reach out to Queen of Peace at 314-531-0511, and additional assistance can be found through the St. Louis Health Department at 314-657-1585, Freedom Community Center at 314-827-3837, InPower Institute at 314-833-9312, and the Restorative Justice Movement at 314-391-9188.
