United Way Southwest Louisiana Reminds Community of 24/7 Helplines Ahead of Hurricane Season

All helplines provide mental health support and are free and confidential.

As hurricane season approaches, United Way Southwest Louisiana reminds community members of the vital support available through three essential helplines: the 211 helpline, the Online Crisis Chat, and the Teen Texting service. All services are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and are free to the public, providing immediate assistance and resources during this stressful period.

The 211 helpline connects callers with trained specialists who can help navigate various challenges, including housing and food insecurity, mental health support, and crisis intervention. The free and confidential service ensures community members can seek help without hesitation. Simply dialing 211 puts a person in need in direct contact with every resource in their zip code. The directory can also be searched online at unitedwayswla.org/211.

The Online Crisis Chat offers real-time support from live crisis intervention specialists and counselors for those who prefer digital communication. This confidential platform allows users to connect and receive tailored local resources to help them through difficult situations. Reach the counselors online at unitedwayswla.org/crisischat.

Recognizing the unique challenges teens face in our community, United Way also emphasizes the availability of the Teen Texting service. By messaging 833.TXT.TEEN [833.898.8336], young people can discreetly reach out for support. A dedicated team of live crisis intervention specialists is ready to provide immediate help for issues such as bullying, mental health concerns, family problems, and substance abuse, all within a confidential setting. Learn more at unitedwayswla.org/txtteen

“As we approach hurricane season, we want our community to know that support is readily available and free to access,” said President and CEO Denise Durel of United Way Southwest Louisiana. “We understand the stress and anxiety that can arise from natural disasters or just the start of this season, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of these resources. You are not alone, we all feel this way.”

To reach the 211 helpline, simply dial 2-1-1 from any phone. For the Online Crisis Chat, visit unitedwayswla.org/crisischat. For Teen Texting, text 833.TXT.TEEN [833.898.8336] to start a conversation.

Anyone needing help with kinship can text the keyword KINSHIPLA to 898-211. Anyone needing help with opioid abuse or recovery can text the keyword OPIOID to 898-211.

United Way Southwest Louisiana encourages all community members to use these vital resources and share this information with others. Materials are available to help spread the word or share online. By supporting each other, we can build a stronger Southwest Louisiana.