The "MassSupport Program" will supplement regular community services and will include sending specially trained workers into tornado-impacted communities.
The Federal Emergency Management Administration has allocated $98,330 for a crisis outreach program for tornado victims in Hampden and Worcester counties.
“Disasters are stressful and draining for survivors,” said Kurt Schwartz, state coordinating officer and director of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. “But help is available for people who feel overwhelmed, exhausted or unable to cope.”
The “MassSupport Program” will supplement regular community services and will include sending specially trained workers into tornado-impacted communities, where they go door to door and visit community centers and civic groups.
“If this disaster caused added stress for you or a loved one, or even if you want someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to call,” said Nick Russo, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer.
In the aftermath of the tornado, a recently appointed Rebuild Springfield Advisory Committee has scheduled a “listening tour” to hear from homeowners, residents and businesses about how they envision their neighborhoods to be rebuilt.
The first stop of the tour is Tuesday, Aug. 2, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Milton Bradley School, 22 Mulberry St., in Springfield.
There is no cost to use the program. For more information, call (781) 915-8047 or 2-1-1. All calls are confidential.