CT Will Get FEMA Aid For Crisis Counseling

The State of Connecticut has received approval for a Federal grant to provide crisis counseling to those who have been impacted by COVID-19, Governor Lamont announced yesterday (June 2.) These funds will assist those experiencing homelessness, staff in facilities that are assisting the homeless, senior citizens in congregate care settings, and 2-11 crisis counseling.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved a federal grant of $669,404. These funds will be administered by the  Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services in cooperation with the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection.

The funds will be used to provide crisis counseling to persons experiencing homelessness who are in shelters, hotels, and in the community, as well as staff in these facilities. The money will also be used for crisis counseling to senior citizens in congregate care settings and the community, and enhancement of crisis counseling call-line services provided through United Way 2-1-1.

The funding will also be used to develop a statewide advertising and media campaign, including social media outreach for the purpose of linking victim families to needed resources, as well as provide psychological first aid support and stress management tips.

This funding is the latest aid approval that Connecticut has received from FEMA. The agency approved Connecticut's Major Disaster Declaration on March 29, which unlocked reimbursement access for many state agencies dealing with the health crisis. In May, the state was granted approval for funding for crisis counseling under the individual assistance category, which helps support mental health initiatives designed to benefit individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.