Disaster Support Line
Emotional support and guidance for young children and their caregivers who've been impacted by natural disasters
The Disaster Support Line is a virtual service (available via telephone or video) that provides emotional support, guidance, and referrals to families and educators impacted by disasters.
Available before, during, and after a storm, trained mental health consultants help individuals prepare emotionally for the storm and manage stress, trauma, and grief during the recovery process.
Special attention is given to individuals supporting young children (0-5), building resilience and ensuring that both children and caregivers have the emotional tools to navigate the challenges of disaster recovery. Additionally, the service connects callers to long-term recovery resources and local services for ongoing support.
The Disaster Support Line is available at NO COST to early childhood professionals and caregivers caring for children birth to age 5.
Prepare
Young children thrive when their caregivers are healthy, emotionally balanced, and not overwhelmed by stress. When caregivers receive support, they are better equipped to provide nurturing care that fosters healthy development.
Consultants play a crucial role in enhancing caregivers' well-being by offering guidance and practical strategies to help them effectively plan and prepare their environment for a disaster.
This preparation not only ensures safety but also helps caregivers create a calm, secure atmosphere for children, reducing anxiety and promoting emotional resilience during challenging times.Â
Understand
Consultation enhances the confidence and competence of early childhood professionals and caregivers, equipping them with the tools needed to support the healthy social-emotional development of all the children in their care.
This becomes especially important in the context of disasters, where children may experience heightened stress, fear, and uncertainty.
By learning and practicing new strategies, caregivers can help children process their emotions, understand the changes happening around them, and develop resilience in the face of adversity.Â
Cope
Consultants can also work closely with caregivers to support children who may be struggling, especially in the aftermath of a disaster.
Children can experience a wide range of emotional reactions, such as fear, anxiety, or confusion, due to the disruption caused by a disaster.
Consultants help caregivers identify signs of stress or trauma in children and provide tailored strategies to address these concerns.Â
Here are a few examples of the kinds of problems the Disaster Support Line supports:Â
Future Storm Concerns
Ever since the hurricane a few months ago, a child care provider has noticed their students seem worried every time it rains or storms. Â
Emotional Distress
A family had to move due to storm damage to their home, and their young child seems tearful and worried about this change
Sleep Concerns
A parent who notices their child has not been sleeping ever since a scary event such as a storm or hurricane. Â
Caregiver Loss
A child care provider experienced their own loss following a natural disaster, and is finding it more difficult to stay present and engaged at work. Â
Preparation
A parent or child care provider wants to be sure they are doing everything they can to support their child emotionally before a storm hits. Â
The Disaster Support Line does NOT support:Â
Medical or Mental Health Emergencies
If you or the child is in immediate danger or in a medical crisis, contact emergency services (911 or local emergency hotlines).
Ongoing Therapy or Counseling
The support line offers short-term support, but will not be able to provide long-term therapy or counseling sessions.
Providing Legal or Financial Advice
The support line focuses on emotional and psychological support, not legal or financial issues that may arise during or after a disaster.
Physical Resources
The support line does not offer resources such as food, water, shelter, clothing, etc. The focus is on emotional and mental support. Â
