Central Georgia News

The community is grappling with the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. The incident has left many deeply concerned for the victims and their families. Local and national resources are being highlighted to support those affected.

Local resources include the United Way of Northeast Georgia's 2-1-1 service, which provides free and confidential health and human services information. Individuals can connect to a certified resource specialist by dialing 2-1-1 from a cell phone.

The Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) offers immediate access to crisis services through its hotline at 1-800-715-4225. Available around the clock, GCAL professionals provide crisis intervention services via phone, dispatch mobile crisis teams, link individuals with urgent appointment services, and more.

Additionally, the Peer2Peer Warm Line program of the Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network offers peer support over the phone 24 hours a day statewide at 888-945-1414.

Nationally, several resources are available for those experiencing distress. The 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential support for people in distress by dialing 9-8-8 from a cell phone.

The SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline operates around the clock offering free crisis counseling for emotional distress related to disasters including mass shootings. It can be reached by dialing or texting 1-800-985-5990.

Lastly, VictimConnect Resource Center offers confidential assistance to crime victims through trained specialists who help locate local services such as mental health counseling and legal services. They can be contacted Monday-Friday from 9 am to 5 pm ET at 855-484-2846 or via chat on their website. Services are also accessible through an interpreter in over 200 languages by dialing 711.

Washington office:

1223 Longworth House Office Bldg

Washington, DC 20515

(202) 225-4101

Monroe District Office:

100 Court Street

Monroe, GA 30655

(770) 207‑1776