Iowa DHS offers free counseling services following weekend tornadoes

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The Iowa Department of Human Services is making free, confidential counseling and support available to Iowans affected by last weekend’s severe weather through the Project Recovery Iowa program. The program offers virtual and in-person counseling sessions to Iowans experiencing emotional distress such as anxiety or feelings of being overwhelmed. Services are offered in person, or through phone, text and social media tools. “We know the severe weather that impacted many Iowans last weekend caused much more than property damage,” DHS Director Kelly Garcia said in a release. “We know there is always a need for mental health support after a catastrophic storm or other life-changing event.” The services are funded through a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Iowans can access services through the following options: call 800-447-1985 to connect with a counselor specializing in rural issues and agriculture; call the Iowa Warm Line, 844-775-9276, to connect with a peer counselor or request to get in touch with a Project Recovery Iowa counselor (both are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week); or visit projectrecoveryiowa.org and complete a contact form and a counselor will get back to you.

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