Red Cross offering support to families and frontline healthcare workers during COVID-19

American Red Cross compassionate care is needed now more than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specially trained volunteers are available with support, information, workshops and referrals for families who have lost loved ones to COVID-19 as well as for frontline workers.
 
“Our thoughts are with all who have suffered the loss of a loved one to COVID-19, as well as all those grappling with the emotional impact of this pandemic,” said Alan H. Turner II, Regional Chief Executive Officer for the American Red Cross, Western New York Region. “We also extend our gratitude to frontline workers who have sacrificed so much. The Red Cross is here to provide compassionate support.”
 
Support for Grieving Families
Individuals and families can visit redcross.org/VFAC or call 833-492-0094 to access a support hub with information, referrals, special virtual programs and services to support families in need.  A team of specially trained Red Cross Disaster Mental Health, Disaster Spiritual Care, and Health Services volunteers are ready to support families during this difficult time. These Red Cross team members help by:

• Connecting with families over the phone to offer condolences, support and access to resources
  
• Providing support for virtual memorial services for families, including connecting with local faith-based community partners
  
• Hosting online classes to foster resilience and facilitate coping skills
  
• Sharing information and referrals to state and local agencies as well as other community organizations including legal resources for estate, custody, immigration, or other issues

Support for Frontline Healthcare Workers and First Responders
“These first responder heroes are courageous and resilient but are often overworked and have to deal with enormous uncertainty and grief,” said Dr. James Halpern, American Red Cross Board of Directors and Founding Director, Institute for Disaster Mental Health, SUNY New Paltz​.

Because of the rapidly changing environment and new, difficult roles taken on by frontline workers, all while worrying about their own families, Dr. Halpern and the Red Cross have developed this online webinar for hospital staff throughout the New York region to help frontline heroes cope during these unprecedented times.
 
The Red Cross also offers individual and group emotional support for frontline workers. This free service helps frontline workers cope with the stress of working with families affected by COVID-19. Individuals may call our toll free number 833-492-0094 or groups may schedule a support session using the Training Request Form. Red Cross volunteers who are professional healthcare providers, mental health providers and spiritual care providers will work with the individual directly or can schedule a group support session. All services are free and confidential.