United Way of the U.S. Virgin Islands informs Virgin Islanders of an important resource that can help those still coping with challenges resulting from the impact of the two 2017 hurricanes. Since the 2018 hurricane season and storms are making their way into the Caribbean, United Way wants residents to have access to counseling and assistance as needed. Resources are available.
The Disaster Distress Helpline, sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services), is a free resource available to everyone.
The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a–year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster.
This toll-free number is multilingual and offers confidential crisis support services. It is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Stress, anxiety and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster.
Please call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline
For more information, contact the United Way USVI office at 774-3185 or email assistance@unitedwayusvi.org. Or visit www.unitedwayusvi.org. If interested in volunteering and helping, email volunteer@unitedwayusvi.org.
