A support group is in the works for anyone impacted by the 2020 wildfires.
“The group is a four-session online support group that was started recently in light of the ongoing need as the community recovers from the fire,” said Keith Irwin, who has worked for many years in Oregon agencies to provide mental health care to young people.
“The intended audience is those impacted in this region by the fires in Santiam Canyon,” Irwin said of the free support group which meets 4-5 p.m. on Tuesdays starting through Feb. 16.
Irwin is joined by co-facilitator Kristie Nelson who also works for Marion County Health and Human Services. Nelson is a peer support partner who has experience in navigating the mental health system and uses that as she serves consumers and families in Marion County.
Helping also is Jason Tate, clinic director, and Jenna Wyatt, office administrator.
According to Irwin, the meetings will feature literature developed by the federal government using FEMA disaster curriculum “which will be tailored toward the fire and recovery from the fire.”
“The group will give opportunities to have participants sharing their story, supporting each other, and then focusing on finding positive and healthy ways to recover,” Irwin said. “If needed, participants can be referred to any of the local resources or long-term counseling as well as any practical referrals such as to the Santiam SIT team or other resources.”
“We are happy to serve the community and hope this will help meet the needs,” both Irwin and Nelson agreed. “We are thankful for the SIT team and the many, many community partners and volunteers which help us as together we serve the community work to address recovery needs.”
To join in, go online using Zoom and enter 967 5926 2095. Passcode is 898053.
For information, call Irwin at 971-345-1390 or Nelson at 503-983-3115.
