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Support Following the Humboldt Broncos Tragedy

Apr 10, 2018 | 8:51 AM

The Government of Saskatchewan extends deepest condolences to all the families and friends of those affected by the Humboldt Broncos bus crash. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire community.

Thank you to the many individuals and organizations who have offered crisis counseling and support for the families, friends and all of those who have experienced this terrible loss in Humboldt. Mental health and crisis counseling is being mobilized at the request of the community and additional volunteers will be requested if needed.

Resources for the public

It can be difficult to understand and comprehend tragedies; it’s important to talk. If you’re feeling an emotional response to the Humboldt Broncos bus crash we encourage you to reach out. Talk to trusted family members, friends, spiritual leaders and professionals.

Saskatchewan also has resources to support members of the public who need counseling or mental health supports, in light of the recent tragedy.

  • Healthline 8-1-1 is a 24/7 free resource for non-emergency support, and is able to direct people to local mental health and psychological supports.
  • Kids Help Phone encourages young people who are affected by the tragedy to seek support. Counsellors are available 24/7 at 1-800-668-6868. People can also text SUPPORT to 686868 to reach a trained volunteer responder through Crisis Text Line powered by Kids Help Phone. For more information, please visit kidshelpphone.ca
  • In any emergency, please dial 9-1-1.

Supports for students and teachers

School Divisions across the province have counsellors and other supports available for students, teachers, and other staff. Many Divisions are reaching out to students and parents to advise them of these supports.

Parents who would like more information about this are encouraged to speak to their child’s school directly.

Support for the Humboldt Community

The Government of Saskatchewan is coordinating offers of assistance to ensure that psychological supports continue to be available in the longer term, for Humboldt and other communities affected.

Currently, in Humboldt, the Red Cross and Saskatchewan Health Authority have resources on the ground to help residents. HealthLine 8-1-1 can also direct residents to support and services.

  • The Red Cross is offering emergency support on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan for lodging, personal services and meals to families who are not from Saskatoon and now supporting family members who are in the hospital.
  • In partnership with Emergency Social Services, the Red Cross is offering comfort in the form of blankets and teddy bears for children – and emergency food, clothing, shelter and other items, along with mental health support, to those directly impacted.
  • Members of the Red Cross Safety and Well-being Team are ready and willing to offer support at the request of communities.

Counselling and support services from many school divisions in Saskatchewan have arrived in each of the Humboldt schools to assist students throughout the coming days.