From Cook County Emergency Operations Center and Public Health and Human Services - July 17, 202

Daily life during the COVID-19 public health emergency can be extremely stressful. Fear and uncertainty about the disease and how it could impact us individually, as a family and as a community can be overwhelming. Recommended public health practices such as social distancing can increase these feelings of isolation and loneliness. 

The Community Support Line, an initiative of the Cook County Emergency Operations Center and Public Health and Human Services, is here for you during these difficult times. 

The Community Support Line provides a listening ear and connection to resources for anyone in Cook County. Trained staff and volunteers can assist members of our community who are:

·      Concerned about work or finances

·      Feeling isolated or alone

·      Disappointed about cancelled events

·      Overwhelmed providing essential services

·      Worried about getting sick

·      Coping with caregiving

Community Support Line Services are free and confidential. Calls are answered from 8am to 10pm Monday through Friday and weekends from 4pm to 10pm by calling 218-877-7071.  

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis that requires immediate attention, call 218-623-1800. If you are unsafe or need emergency medical care, call 911.

Learn more about the Community Support Line and the behavioral health response to COVID-19 in Cook County and the PHHS department at the July 21st PHHS Board Meeting. PHHS Board Meetings are available to livestream and view on the Cook County website at www.co.cook.mn.us. Follow us on Facebook @CookCountyPHHS to learn more about public health and human services resources in Cook County. 

For the most up to date information on COVID-19 response in Cook County, visit www.cookcountycovid19.org

County Connections is a column on timely topics and service information from your Cook County government. Cook County – Supporting Community Through Quality Public Service