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Polis Administration Announces Resources to Support Victims And Community Members Following Tragic Shooting in Colorado Springs

Government and Politics

November 21, 2022

From: Colorado Governor Jared Polis

DENVER - Today, the Polis administration shared the below list of resources available to Coloradans in the aftermath of the senseless and horrific shooting in Colorado Springs on Sunday, November 20. Coloradans can also  securely contribute to community members in need by giving to the Colorado Healing Fund at: https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/COHealingFund. 

“Our hearts are heavy following the horrific shooting in Colorado Springs yesterday. Colorado deserves to be a place where everyone can be who they are, love who they love, and live freely without the threat of violence,” said Gov. Polis. “This horrific attack has affected us all differently, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of the many resources available for much-needed support during this challenging time.”

"In accordance with our values of truth, equity, and community-informed practice, the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) stands against violence, hate, and dehumanization in all its forms. We mourn with our LGBTQIA+ community and everyone impacted by this tragedy," said Dr. Morgan Medlock, BHA Commissioner.

The Behavioral Health Administration within the Polis administration connects Coloradans with meaningful and trusted resources for crisis services and mental health care support.

Statewide Crisis Services and Mental Health Resources

Colorado Crisis Services offers support with any mental health, substance use or emotional concern. Call 844- 493-TALK (8255), or text TALK to 38255 to reach trained professionals who provide free, immediate support.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) offers 24/7 call, text and chat access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. Youth can request a counselor who specifically focuses on the needs of LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults via call, text, and chat.

OwnPath connects Coloradans with behavioral health providers licensed by the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) and to search for specific services or use a guided search to identify providers or resources that best meet their needs.

Youth-Focused Crisis Services and Mental Health Resources

Below the Surface aims to help teens connect to and get support from the Colorado Crisis Services (CCS) text line. Text TALK to 38255 to speak with a trained counselor 24/7 on a personal, free, confidential line.

I Matter provides up to six free therapy sessions for any Colorado youth 18 years of age or younger, or 21 years of age or younger if receiving special education services. Therapy is provided by licensed clinicians in Colorado.

Inside Out Youth Services builds access, equity, and power with LGBTQIA2+ young people, through leadership, advocacy, community-building, education, and peer support.

The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ young people. Connect to a crisis counselor 24/7, 365 days a year, from anywhere in the U.S. It is 100% confidential, and 100% free.

Colorado Springs Focused Crisis Services and Mental Health Resources

A Community Resource Event will be held at UCCS Kevin W. O’Neill Cybersecurity & Research Center (3650 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80907) to provide mental health resources, spiritual support, emotional support animals, childcare, emergency financial resources, LGBTQ+ support, meals, and other services.

Security for all attendees will be provided by uniformed Colorado Springs police officers. The event is designed to be an inclusive and safe space for all community members to gather, grieve, and obtain emotional support. This event is not open to the media for interviews or camera footage.

Monday, November 21, 2022, 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday, November 22, 2022, 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday, November 23, 2022, 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Hard Beauty provides recovery services including coaching, support groups, professional development, peer recovery support, and community events. Hard Beauty will offer recovery services free of charge to anyone who wants or needs additional support at the Community Resource Event (see details above).

Diversus Health Lighthouse facility in Colorado Springs is a walk-in crisis center for all ages, providing crisis services, counseling, and psychiatric therapy, and round-the-clock acute care for mental wellbeing.

NAMI Colorado Springs creates and cultivates a welcoming community of peers who educate, support and advocate for people and families living with mental health conditions. It offers in-person and virtual support groups.

Peak View Behavioral Health offers complimentary assessments 24/7 for individuals of all ages seeking help and support for mental health and/or substance use in Colorado.