If you've ever taken a tour of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, you may have heard us say "we deal with topics most people don't like to talk about." Rape, suicide, domestic violence, violent crime, substance abuse; these are all reasons people turn to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay for help.

As we all know, there is tremendous stigma associated with these topics, but in recent months we have seen a willingness in society for some frank and open conversations. The #MeToo movement, tragic events like the Parkland school shooting, and the sudden loss of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain to suicide have forced people to talk about these uncomfortable topics and to strive to find solutions for people who need help.

At the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, we are part of those solutions. Through a simple phone call to 2-1-1, people who are hurting can receive immediate emotional support and connections to over 3,000 community resources. These resources include trauma counseling and sexual assault services, both of which are provided directly by the Crisis Center.

Even though we deal with these difficult situations, the reality is the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is a place of hope. When people call 2-1-1, when they first meet a trauma counselor, or when they are transported to the hospital by a TransCare EMT, they are taking their first steps to healing.

Without your support, none of this is possible! It takes the joint effort of donors, volunteers, staff, and funders for the Crisis Center to serve as the community's gateway to help during times of crisis.

Thank you for your support and for making a difference!

 

Clara