Thoughts and support for our state.

This past week has been challenging for many in our state. Many have faced loss of power, homes, vehicles, food, and even loved ones.

We share in your sadness and concern for those in our region most impacted by the storm.

At SCIMHA, we're exploring ways to support both physical and mental needs. This email aims to connect you with resources if you need help or to provide ways to donate if you're able.

We're keeping all the children, caregivers, and affected individuals in our thoughts as the southeast works toward recovery.

Feel free to share this email with others who may benefit!

What would babies say if we asked them what they needed right now?

Our Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Specialists put together this helpful guide on how to de-code what your child's behaviors after a natural disaster might be telling you.

Read the blog here.

"Trinka and Sam: The RainyWindy Day"

Grab your little one and join Tiffany as she reads this beautiful book written by Chandra Gosh Ippen and illustrated by Erich Ippen, Jr.

This story follows Trinka and Sam as they share their feelings after a bad storm. Their parents support them and help navigate their emotions.

Free disaster resource developed by Piplo Productions and The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. Head here for more free resources!

Read by Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist, Tiffany Stenson.

The impact of Hurricane Helene is still unfolding, and we want to offer a supportive space to hold the burden of that impact together.

If you are an Infant/Early Childhood Professional who supports infants, children and families impacted by Hurricane Helene, then this space is for you. You may also have been impacted directly.

This is a space for us to share our experiences, receive support, be in community, and for us to be held around this. This can be a space to share a story or lend an ear. This can be a space to just be.

Feel free to come as you are, and as you can. We have 2 times for you to join.

October 9th: 11am-12pm

October 9th: 3pm-4pm

Support Group Registration

Where to find resources and/or donate:

Department of Social Services (DSS)

Check here for SNAP replacement benefits, Government openings/closures, emergency shelters, and more.

DSS Website

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

FEMA approved Individual Assistance program help to Aiken, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Cherokee, Greenville, Greenwood, Lexington, Newberry, Oconee, Pickens, Saluda, and Spartanburg counties. (This is not a final list of counties, keep checking if yours isn't listed here). This program provides direct financial assistance to residents who incurred uninsured damages to their property as a result of the storm. Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at the below website.

FEMA Website

SC Emergency Management Division (SCEMD)

Find emergency shelters, food banks and organizations requesting donations, ways to serve, and the latest info on SC recovery.

SCEMD Website

United Way of South Carolina

All funds raised will be directed to help recovery and relief efforts for South Carolina residents affected by Hurricane Helene. You will be able to choose the county you'd like to help. The United Way Association of South Carolina will underwrite all administrative costs associated with dispersing these funds, and 100% of funds received will go directly to supporting recovery efforts.

United Way of SC Website

Kidding Around Greenville

Kidding Around Greenville updates their social media daily on places donating time, food, etc as well as informing the upstate community of places seeking volunteers. Follow on social for most info. Check the website for a list of places helping in the upstate.

KAG Upstate Storm Recovery

Other places to donate to support the Southeast:

Operation Air Drop

World Central Kitchen

The Humane Society

If you have behavioral concerns or questions about your child, especially during this trying time, please fill out our FREE developmental screening through Help Me Grow. Our Care Coordinators will contact you with results and connect you to needed resources in your community.

Help Me Grow SC Website