As a result of the tornado and its impact on Weld and Larimer counties May 22, North Range Behavioral Health has been designated by the State of Colorado Division of Behavioral Health as the provider agency for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Crisis Counseling Program.. This program is designed to support the communities recovery through the delivery of educational, community outreach and crisis counseling services.

This FEMA grant supports staff to go into the entire area affected by the tornado, door-to-door with the goal of addressing the emotional impact of surviving a tornado and informing survivors of resources offered by the community. In addition, staff assist in the following areas:

• Face-to-face contact with affected residents in an attempt to provide in-person assistance to all individuals and families.
• Distribute support brochures.
• Organize educational groups to aid in re-creating a sense of community among affected residents.
• Make formal presentations educating individuals and groups about support services and systems in their community.
• Offer referrals for individuals who exhibit emotional and psychological symptoms and may need long term attention.
• Make available the North Range Behavioral Health 24-hour helpline.

To contact directly, please call Colorado Spirit at 970-347-2358 and ask for Derek Gaarder.