News Releases

Missouri receives FEMA Show Me Hope Crisis Counseling grant to help natural disaster survivors

[Jefferson City, MO] – In response to the tornados experienced on May 16, 2025, the Show Me Hope Crisis Counseling Program (CCP) grant will fund psychological services to help build hope and resiliency in St. Louis and Sikeston area survivors. Show Me Hope crisis counselors will teach coping and stress management skills to anyone dealing with anxiety and uncertainty from the disasters, as well as provide educational materials and resources.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded the CCP grant to the Department of Mental Health (DMH) this week to deliver outreach services through the participating Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs): Bootheel Behavioral Health, BJC Behavioral Health, People’s Health Center, Places for People, and Queen of Peace. The St. Louis Health Department along with Freedom Community Center, InPower Institute, and Restorative Justice Movement will also participate.

Individuals and families impacted by the disaster, known as FEMA 4877, who live in Scott County, St. Louis County, and City of St. Louis will have access to Show Me Hope services.

Show Me Hope crisis counselors will connect survivors with local mental health resources. However, any Missourian experiencing stress or emotional strain because of the disasters can call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-985-5990.

The CCP is a short-term disaster relief program funded by FEMA to assist individuals and families in recovery from disasters through the following goals:

  • Reach large numbers of people affected by disasters through face-to-face outreach to shelters, homes, community events and other locations,
  • Assess the emotional needs of survivors and make referrals to traditional behavioral health services when necessary
  • Identify tangible needs and link survivors to community resources and disaster relief services
  • Provide emotional support, education, basic crisis counseling, and connection to familial and community support systems
  • Train and educate CCP staff and other community partners about disaster reactions, appropriate interventions, and CCP services
  • Develop partnerships with local disaster and other organizations
  • Work with local stakeholders to promote community resilience and recovery
  • Collect and evaluate data to ensure quality services and justify program efforts
  • Leave behind a permanent legacy of improved coping skills, educational and resource materials, and enhanced community connections.

 

For local assistance, contact the Show Me Hope CMHC below:

  • Scott County: Bootheel Behavioral Health – 573-471-0800
  • St. Louis County: BJC Behavioral Health – 314-747-7491
  • St. Louis City:
    • People’s Health Center: assisting children under 18 – 314-367-7848
    • Places for People: assisting the uninsured and unhoused – 314-535-5600
    • Queen of Peace: assisting women and families – 314-531-0511
    • St. Louis Health Department – 314-657-1585,
    • Freedom Community Center – 314-827-3837,
    • InPower Institute – 314-833-9312,
    • Restorative Justice Movement – 314-391-9188

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