A Message from our School Counselor
I hope that you and your families continue to stay safe and that your children are coping well. This is a very trying time for everyone, so please take care of yourselves so you can support your children.
Below are a number of both mental health and general resources. I have also attached an article on how you can support your kids after a hurricane. Please know that I am here to help as well, so if you’d like to connect with a virtual meeting or phone call, just let me know.
Mental Health Resources
1. Tulane’s TIKES is offering free tele-mental health support for parents and caregivers.
2. Ochsner Health is offering a free tele-mental health session through Ochsner Anywhere Care . You can log on online or through the app anytime and use the code “IDATherapy”
3. Louisiana Healthcare Connections has a 24-hour toll free crisis hotline you can call to speak to a licensed clinician.
4. Disaster Distress Helpline – This is a free, confidential 24-hour helpline for anyone affected by a natural disaster, including Hurricane IDA. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 to get connected with a mental health professional.
General Resources
1. FEMA – Applying for Natural Disaster Assistance, from Hurricane IDA. FEMA will help determine your eligibility for different assistance offerings. Remember to document any property damage and save receipts for repairs, equipment and hotel stays.
2. NOLA Ready – Hurricane Ida Response Information (Shelter Info, Cooling Centers, Meals/Water/Ice distribution). Text NOLAREADY to 77295 on your phone for regular emergency notices/updates.
3. Louisiana Department of Transportation – For mapping your route in and out of NOLA area, provides real-time updates on road conditions/closures.
4. Free Roof Tarping Assistance – Provided by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
5. Gas Station Tracker – Identifies the Fuel and Power status of gas stations (can search by city and by map)
6. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – In addition to providing 24/7 confidential counseling services to help those dealing with the emotional aftermath of a disaster, they also have specialists standing by to help connect you with finding shelter, emergency programs, the Red Cross, and other national/local resources.
Warmly,
Stephanie
Stephanie Wimett, M.Ed., NCC
School Counselor & Designated Safeguarding Lead
