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Welcome Bari Becker to the First Contact Board of Directors

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:19:37 GMT

Welcome bari Becker to the Empty heading

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We are pleased to announce that Bari Becker, has joined the First Contact Board of Directors. Bari brings an incredible mix of community passion, nonprofit leadership, and deep Tampa Bay connections to our Board, and we’re thrilled to welcome her into the First Contact family!

A Community Connector at Heart

Currently serving as Community Relations Manager for Orlando Health – West Region, Bari spends her days doing what First Contact is all about—building meaningful relationships and connecting organizations, partners, and people to make communities stronger. Over the years, she has worked closely with more than 100 local nonprofits, led hundreds of community activations, and supported volunteerism, sponsorships, and outreach efforts that directly improve lives throughout the region.

Her professional background spans healthcare, education, and nonprofit development, with previous roles at organizations such as Step Up For Students, the Alzheimer’s Association, and USF Health. Simply put: Bari knows how to bring people together around shared purpose—and make things happen.

A Shared Passion for 988 and Behavioral Health

One of the reasons Bari was drawn to First Contact is her passion for behavioral health and crisis support, particularly the life-saving work of 988. “I’m especially passionate about the work being done with 988 and helping spread the message so people know where to turn when they—or someone they love—need support,” Bari shared.

A Leader in the Community
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In addition to her professional work, Bari is deeply engaged in civic leadership. She has served on the Leadership St. Pete Planning Committee and is currently a member of Leadership Tampa Bay, Class of 2026. These experiences have further strengthened her connections across Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties—relationships that will be invaluable as First Contact continues to grow its reach and impact.

“Bari’s experience, energy, and commitment to community make her an outstanding addition to our Board,” said Micki Thompson, President/CEO of First Contact. “Her perspective and leadership will help us continue to elevate our work and expand awareness of the services people rely on every day.”

Join us in welcoming Bari to the Board—and stay tuned for more exciting updates from First Contact!

First Contact In Action: Supporting Disaster Survivors Following June 2025 Tornadoes

mickit@211tampabay.org (Micki Thompson) — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 20:48:52 GMT

Pictured: Kameron Mitchell, Public Affairs Specialist, Small Business Administration (Atlanta, GA); Reanna Schutz, Ambassador, First Contact; Benjamin Roy, District Aide, State Representative Berny Jacques; Alton Farr, Database Curator, First Contact.

When disaster strikes, First Contact is there—ready to respond, support, and stand alongside our neighbors. In the aftermath of the severe tornadoes that tore through Pinellas County on June 25, 2025, our team hit the ground running at the SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) at Largo Public Library, bringing hope, information, and hands-on assistance to those affected.

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The DLOC became a central hub where residents and business owners could ask questions, explore recovery options, and apply for critical low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). And First Contact was right there with them.

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Expert guidance from SBA reps on disaster loan programs
Step-by-step help understanding eligibility and loan terms
Personalized support with completing applications

Our First Contact team brought warmth, clarity, and compassion to the process—because navigating recovery shouldn’t be overwhelming when you’ve already been through so much.

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Recovery is about more than paperwork. It’s about people. That’s why we’re especially proud of how we were able to provide emergency housing for three displaced adults and one cherished pet through our trusted partnership with Airbnb.org.

Thanks to this collaboration, we were able to move fast and get families into safe, temporary homes while they regrouped and began the next steps in their recovery journey.

This service is available to:

Tornado and disaster survivors
Emergency responders in the field
Vulnerable community members impacted by crisis

When the unexpected happens, safe shelter should never be out of reach—and we make sure it isn’t.

Disaster Loans: What You Need to Know Empty heading

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If you or someone you know was impacted by the June tornadoes, help is available now through the SBA’s disaster loan program. Here’s what’s offered:

Small businesses and nonprofits: Up to $2 million to repair or replace real estate, inventory, and equipment
Homeowners: Up to $500,000 for primary residence repairs or replacement
Renters and homeowners: Up to $100,000 for personal property—vehicles, furniture, appliances, etc.
Mitigation bonuses: Up to 20% more to fund storm-resistant upgrades (e.g., storm shelters, wind-rated garage doors)

�� Don’t wait on insurance! Empty heading

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Apply now—even if your insurance claim is still being processed. You may be eligible for full assistance, and any insurance proceeds can later be used to reduce your loan amount.

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Where: Largo Public Library
Address: 120 Central Park Dr, Largo, FL 33771
Opening Day: Thursday, July 10 at 11:00 a.m.

Hours of Operation:

Monday–Wednesday: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Thursday–Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

Closing Permanently: Sunday, July 28 at 4:00 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcome! Or skip the wait and schedule an appointment at appointment.sba.gov .

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Property damage loan deadline: September 8, 2025
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Economic injury loan deadline: April 8, 2026
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�� How to Apply or Get Help Empty heading

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Online: sba.gov/disaster
Phone: (800) 659-2955
Email: disastercustomerservice@sba.gov
TTY/Relay Services: Dial 7-1-1

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At First Contact, we believe in rising together—stronger, safer, and more connected than ever. Whether it’s navigating a loan application, finding temporary shelter, or simply being there when it matters most, we’re proud to be your first contact when life gets tough.

To learn more about our programs and services, visit FirstContact.org .

July 2025

Welcome Kamran Malik to the First Contact Board of Directors

mickit@211tampabay.org (Micki Thompson) — Tue, 20 May 2025 17:23:50 GMT

Welcome Kamran Malik to the

First Contact Board of Directors

We are pleased to announce that Kamran A. Malik , ASA, MAAA, has joined the First Contact Board of Directors . Kamran brings with him nearly three decades of experience in healthcare consulting, insurance product strategy, and community leadership — making him a valuable addition to our organization as we continue to expand our reach and impact across the region.

A Wealth of Experience in Healthcare and Analytics

Kamran currently serves as a Principal and Consulting Actuary , advising insurance carriers, reinsurance companies, and national brokerages on risk management and product development. Over the years, he has developed a strong reputation as a subject matter expert in commercial major medical and supplemental insurance products, including long-term care, critical illness, and Medicare supplement plans.

His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln . He is an Associate of the Society of Actuaries and a member of the American Academy of Actuaries — designations that reflect his professional expertise and dedication to excellence.

Commitment to Public Service

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kamran is deeply committed to community engagement. He was appointed by the Florida Supreme Court to serve on the Florida Board of Bar Examiners , where he contributes to ensuring the integrity of the state’s legal profession. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the FBI Tampa Citizen’s Academy Alumni Association and helps the Youth Leadership Pinellas Program , where he helps shape programming for high school students interested in civic leadership.

Kamran is also an alumnus of both Leadership Tampa Bay and Leadership Pinellas , and has volunteered extensively across several local organizations.

Please join us in welcoming Kamran Malik to the First Contact Board of Directors. His leadership and experience will be a tremendous asset as we continue to serve individuals and families throughout our community.

Empowering Older Adults and Caregivers: Our New Disaster Preparedness Resource is Here

mickit@211tampabay.org (Micki Thompson) — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 19:03:04 GMT

Empowering Older Adults and Caregivers:

Our New Disaster Preparedness Resource is Here

At First Contact , we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe and supported—especially during times of crisis. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of a brand-new resource on our website: Disaster Preparedness for Older Adults and Caregivers .

This dedicated webpage is designed to help older adults, individuals with disabilities, and their caregivers feel confident and ready when emergencies strike. From hurricanes and floods to power outages and evacuation scenarios, our resource hub offers practical, accessible tools to plan ahead and stay protected.

Why This Resource Matters

Older adults and caregivers often face unique challenges during disasters—limited mobility, medical needs, social isolation, and more. Recognizing these challenges, we created this webpage to serve as a one-stop guide to disaster planning that truly meets people where they are.

We’ve pulled together essential information and turned it into actionable, easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re a caregiver planning for a loved one, an older adult looking for peace of mind, or a service provider supporting vulnerable community members, this resource is for you.

What You’ll Find on the Page

Here’s a quick look at what’s available:

Personalized Emergency Planning Tips – Guidance on how to create a plan that fits your unique needs.
Checklists and Toolkits – Downloadable resources to help you build an emergency supply kit, organize important documents, and more.
Evacuation & Shelter Planning – Information on mobility considerations and staying connected with local support services.
Medication & Medical Device Prep – How to ensure continuity of care when routines are disrupted.
Community Resources – Links to local programs, support networks, and assistance lines.

We’ve also included helpful links to partner organizations and agencies, so you’ll always know where to turn for reliable information and aid.

Building Resilient Communities Together

“Our goal with this new webpage is to help people feel empowered, not overwhelmed,” said Micki Thompson, President and CEO of First Contact . “Disasters are stressful, but preparation can provide peace of mind. This tool is about helping people stay safe and connected when they need it most.”

We invite you to explore the new resource and share it widely with those who could benefit from it—friends, family, clients, or colleagues. Together, we can build stronger, safer, and more resilient communities.

Pinellas County Commission Board Chair Brian Scott Visits First Contact

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 18:16:41 GMT

Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners

Board Chair Brian Scott Visits First Contact

We were thrilled to welcome Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners Chair Brian Scott and Coleen Chaney to First Contact today!

They took time out of their day to learn more about the vital work we do—including our 988 and 211 helplines, specialized hotlines, and financial assistance programs that serve individuals and families across our community.

We’re grateful for the continued support from Pinellas County Government and proud of our strong partnership working together to make a difference.

Thank you, Commissioner Scott and Coleen, for stopping by and for championing the needs of our community!

Happy National 211 Day!

mickit@211tampabay.org (Micki Thompson) — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 13:24:34 GMT

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Celebrating National 211 Day:

Connecting People to Help, Hope, and Support

At First Contact , we are committed to ensuring that individuals never have to navigate life's difficulties on their own. That’s why we’re proud to celebrate National 211 Day today, February 11th—a day dedicated to raising awareness about the life-changing impact of 211 services across the country.

What is 211?

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211 is a free, confidential, and 24/7 resource that connects people with essential services and support in times of need. Whether someone is struggling with housing, food insecurity, financial hardship, mental health, or disaster recovery, 211 is here to help—providing real-time solutions to real-life problems.

As First Contact , we are honored to serve our community by providing 211 assistance throughout Pinellas and Hernando counties, ensuring that individuals and families get the right support at the right time.

211 by the Numbers

Each year, millions of people across the U.S. dial 211 for assistance. Locally, First Contact’s 211 specialists have helped thousands of residents connect to food banks, rental assistance, crisis counseling, and disaster relief. The impact of these services is immeasurable, often providing the turning point for those in need.

How 211 Makes a Difference

Here are just a few ways 211 changes lives in our community:

A single mother facing eviction finds emergency rental assistance.
A senior struggling with loneliness is connected to mental health support.
A family displaced by a hurricane is provided shelter and financial assistance.
A veteran in crisis is connected to mental health services and employment programs.

No matter the situation, 211 serves as a lifeline, offering not just resources, but also hope and empowerment.

Join Us in Celebrating 211 Day!

On this special day, we encourage you to:

✅ Spread the word – Let friends and family know about 211 services.
✅ Support our mission – Consider donating or volunteering to help us continue providing vital resources.
✅ Follow us on social media – Share success stories, updates, and how 211 has helped you or someone you know.

Every call to 211 represents a story of resilience and support. Today, we celebrate the individuals and families who find hope through our services, as well as our dedicated 211 specialists who answer the call 24/7.

Need help? Just dial 211.

Want to help?

Visit our website at firstcontact.org to learn how you can support our mission.

Happy National 211 Day from all of us at First Contact!

First Contact & Red Star Foundation: A Growing Partnership

mickit@211tampabay.org (Micki Thompson) — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 21:50:38 GMT

At First Contact , we are always seeking to connect with organizations that are making a meaningful impact in the community. Recently, we had the opportunity to learn about the Red Star Foundation , a newly formed nonprofit dedicated to supporting families affected by suicide loss—particularly those who have lost a loved one who served as a military member, veteran, or first responder .

On Friday, January 31, 2025 , members of our First Contact Team attended a press conference in Clearwater, Florida , to learn more about the foundation’s mission and the critical work they are doing.

A Mission Born from Personal Loss

The Red Star Foundation was founded by a group of former military officials who, through personal experience, understand the profound grief and hardship that comes with losing someone to suicide. Their goal is to fill the gap in resources and support for grieving families—something they found to be sorely lacking, particularly for those connected to the military and first responder communities.

During the event, Jerry Shaffer , one of the foundation’s founders, shared the powerful story behind its creation. He introduced Michelle Syer , who tragically lost her husband to suicide five years ago. In a conversation sparked by shared grief, Jerry offered to send her any resources that might help her and her family.

Through their discussions, Jerry uncovered a heartbreaking truth: families who lose a loved one to suicide—especially those who served in the military or as first responders—often find themselves without adequate support. This realization led to the formation of the Red Star Foundation, an organization committed to ensuring that no family has to navigate this painful journey alone.

Community Support & Recognition

The event also featured Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector , who bravely shared his own personal story of how suicide has affected his family. His testimony reinforced the urgent need for organizations like the Red Star Foundation and emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding suicide loss .

Though the foundation is still in its infancy—it was established just six months ago—it is already making a significant impact. With a growing presence and a dedicated mission, Red Star is determined to bring hope, awareness, and tangible support to families who need it most.

First Contact & Red Star Foundation: A Growing Partnership

We are proud to announce that First Contact has officially added the Red Star Foundation to our community resource referral database . As they continue to expand their reach and services, we look forward to learning more about their efforts and collaborating in ways that further support individuals and families affected by suicide loss.

The work of the Red Star Foundation is a reminder of the power of community, compassion, and action . Their mission aligns with our own commitment at First Contact—to be a trusted resource for those in crisis and to provide pathways to healing and hope.

For those seeking support or interested in learning more about the Red Star Foundation , we encourage you to explore their work and see how you can get involved.

Together, we can make a difference.

If you know of a program that could be beneficial to our community and would like First Contact to know about them, please email update@firstcontact.org . We’re always looking for new resources to help those in need.

New Year, New Mindset

mickit@211tampabay.org (Micki Thompson) — Sat, 04 Jan 2025 19:50:26 GMT

Prioritizing Well-Being in the New Year

The start of a new year offers a fresh opportunity to focus on what truly matters: your well-being. While many resolutions revolve around fitness, career goals, or financial success, it’s equally important to prioritize mental health. Setting intentional mental health resolutions can help you build resilience, reduce stress, and improve your overall quality of life.

At First Contact , we understand the importance of mental wellness and are here to help. Whether you’re looking to improve your daily habits, navigate a challenging situation, or find professional support, we’ve got you covered.

Why Make Mental Health a Resolution?

Mental health is as vital as physical health, yet it’s often overlooked. Stress, anxiety, and burnout can take a toll on your relationships, productivity, and happiness. By setting mental health goals, you give yourself permission to slow down, focus on self-care, and prioritize your emotional well-being.

Practical Tips for Maintaining Mental Wellness

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Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce stress and keep you grounded. Start with just five minutes a day and gradually increase the time as it becomes part of your routine.

Set Boundaries
Protect your time and energy by saying "no" when necessary and setting limits on activities or commitments that drain you. Prioritizing your own needs isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

Stay Active
Regular physical activity isn’t just good for your body; it’s great for your mind. Exercise releases endorphins, which can boost your mood and help combat anxiety and depression.

Connect with Others
Isolation can be harmful to mental health. Make an effort to connect with friends, family, or support groups. Even a simple phone call can make a big difference.

Limit Screen Time
Constant exposure to social media and news can be overwhelming. Set aside specific times to unplug and focus on real-world connections and activities.

Keep a Journal
Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process emotions, recognize patterns, and track your progress toward mental health goals.

Recognizing When to Seek Professional Help

It’s important to recognize when you may need additional support. Signs you might benefit from professional help include:

Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiety.
Difficulty managing stress or daily responsibilities.
Changes in sleep or appetite.
Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Professional support can provide you with tools and strategies to navigate challenges and improve your mental health.

Start the Year Prioritizing Yourself

As you set your New Year’s resolutions, remember to include mental health as a priority. Small, consistent steps can lead to meaningful change. And if you need support along the way, First Contact is here to help. Together, we can make 2025 a year of growth, self-care, and well-being.

For more information about First Contact’s mental health support services and resources, visit FirstContact.org .

First Contact Celebrates Kip Corriveau Appointment to AARP Florida Executive Council

mickit@211tampabay.org (Micki Thompson) — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 20:37:53 GMT

First Contact Celebrates Kip Corriveau Appointment to

AARP Florida Executive Council

AARP has named Kip Corriveau to its Executive Council. Kip Corriveau is the Director of Senior & Caregiver Services for First Contact , which provides proactive outreach, information, referrals, and care coordination and organizes community outreach, awareness, and crisis response efforts for up to 300,000 older adults in the Tampa Bay area. Kip Corriveau has an extensive background in healthcare advocacy for non-profit organizations and has been actively involved in various local initiatives focusing on community health programs. His dedication to fostering high-quality aging services, his personal experience as a family caregiver, and his strategic vision will be invaluable to the Council’s ongoing projects on caregiving. Congratulations Kip! To read more, click HERE .

State Representative Berny Jacques Visits First Contact

mickit@211tampabay.org (Micki Thompson) — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 20:30:10 GMT

State Representative Berny Jacques Visits First Contact

We’re incredibly grateful to State Representative Berny Jacques for visiting First Contact today! It was an absolute honor to share our vision for disaster support services—especially for seniors and caregivers—as we continue to recover and rebuild from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. ��

With Rep. Jacques’ support and advocacy, we’re championing connections with vital resources to ensure no one is left behind after surviving a community disaster. Together, we’re creating a stronger, more resilient Florida! ��

Thank you, Representative Berny Jacques, for your leadership and commitment to our community. Your partnership makes all the difference! ��

Welcome Annah-Lauren Valicoff to the First Contact Board of Directors!

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:56:44 GMT

Meet Annah-Lauren Valicoff

We are thrilled to announce that Annah-Lauren Valicoff, Director of Population Health - Clinical Programs at BayCare, has joined our First Contact Board of Directors! Annah-Lauren’s extensive experience in healthcare, her passion for community well-being, and her innovative leadership align perfectly with First Contact’s mission to connect people with resources that transform lives.

Annah-Lauren has dedicated over a decade to supporting individuals and families through healthcare and case management. As a licensed clinical social worker, she has served on the front lines and in leadership roles, leveraging resources like 211 and 9-8-8 to connect patients with critical services. Her in-depth understanding of population health and patient advocacy will help First Contact expand our reach and impact.

Hometown: Safety Harbor, Florida

Annah-Lauren’s Perspective
"I am very passionate about ensuring that our patients and community have the resources they need to meet their basic needs. Serving on the First Contact Board is an incredible opportunity to enhance this mission.”

A Shared Mission

Annah-Lauren brings a fresh perspective to the Board, informed by her firsthand experience with the needs of patients and their families. Her leadership and commitment make her a perfect fit as we strive to broaden our impact and elevate our services.

Welcome Annah-Lauren!

First Contact Shares Insights on Community Needs Through 211 Counts Data

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 22:56:43 GMT

First Contact is proud to announce the integration of data from 211 Counts , a real-time community needs dashboard, with its own internal insights to paint a detailed picture of the challenges faced by residents in our community. This analysis highlights critical trends and ensures that resources are directed where they are needed most.

“Understanding the needs of our community is the foundation of our mission,” said Micki Thompson, President/CEO of First Contact . “By leveraging tools like 211 Counts alongside our own data, we can better respond to challenges and empower individuals and families during their most vulnerable moments.”

Key Insights from the Data

Recent data from 211 Counts and First Contact reveals several significant trends:

Housing and Shelter: Housing requests remain among the top needs, exacerbated by the ongoing impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The demand for both temporary and long-term housing solutions has risen sharply.
Mental Health Support: Calls to First Contact’s 211 and 988 crisis lines show a growing need for mental health services. Anxiety, depression, and isolation, particularly among older adults, remain critical concerns.
Food Insecurity: Food assistance continues to be a significant need, particularly for families with minor children. Rising living costs have left many residents struggling to meet basic needs.
Caregiver Support: Families caring for individuals with chronic conditions or disabilities face unique challenges. First Contact’s Caregiver Care and Support Project is addressing these needs, with high demand for respite services and resources for caregivers.

Data-Driven Action

These findings enable First Contact to prioritize its programs and partnerships, ensuring a targeted approach to addressing community challenges. For example, the organization has collaborated with local food pantries and support programs to combat food insecurity and partnered with emergency response networks to connect displaced residents to temporary emergency housing.

“Our data informs not only our actions but also inspires collaboration across the community,” said Thompson. “We’re using these insights to build partnerships, address gaps through our partner providers, and create a stronger, more resilient community.”

Encouraging Community Engagement

First Contact invites community members, local leaders, and partner organizations to explore 211 Counts and join in addressing the challenges outlined in the data. Together, we can ensure that every individual and family in our community has access to the resources they need to thrive.

For more information about First Contact and our initiatives, visit FirstContact.org .

Hurricanes Helene and Milton Recovery Efforts of First Contact Staff

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 22:56:41 GMT

As the communities of Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and Hillsborough counties continue to recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, First Contact is proud to recognize the incredible work of our dedicated staff. Our First Contact team has responded to almost 4,000 calls from those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton in the last 7 weeks . These unsung heroes have gone above and beyond to support families, seniors, and individuals affected by these historic storms, providing vital resources, compassionate care, and unwavering hope during a time of great uncertainty.

A Lifeline for the Community

In the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the First Contact team mobilized immediately to address the urgent needs of those affected. Staff members worked around the clock to answer thousands of calls and texts, offering critical information, referrals, and emotional support to individuals navigating the chaos left by the storms. From assisting with information regarding emergency shelter to connecting people with food, cooling stations, water, and other essential services, their efforts were a lifeline for the community.

A Community United

“ First Contact’s mission has always been to stand with our community in times of need, and our staff have truly exemplified that commitment in response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton,” said Micki Thompson, President/CEO of First Contact . “Their dedication, compassion, and resilience have been nothing short of inspiring. They are the heart of our organization and the reason we can make such a profound impact.”

As the recovery process continues, First Contact remains committed to supporting the individuals and families affected by these disasters. We thank our staff for their extraordinary efforts and their unwavering dedication to serving our community.

To learn more about First Contact’ s disaster response efforts, please visit us at FirstContact.org .

First Contact Partners with The Hello In There Foundation to Assist Gulfport Seniors and Hospitality Workers Impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 22:56:40 GMT

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, First Contact was proud to partner with the Hello In There Foundation to provide critical support to Gulfport seniors and hospitality workers who were severely impacted by the storms.

Thanks to a generous $120,000 grant from the Hello In There Foundation, First Contact was able to assist 200 Gulfport hospitality workers with $100,000 in direct financial support and provide $20,000 to aid 40 Gulfport seniors. This partnership ensured that those who are often overlooked during disaster recovery efforts receive the care and assistance they need to rebuild their lives.

"Natural disasters disrupt entire communities, but the impact is especially profound for seniors and those in the hospitality industry who face financial instability," said Micki Thompson, President/CEO of First Contact . "We are deeply grateful to the Hello In There Foundation for their trust and support in helping us provide meaningful assistance to Gulfport residents during this difficult time."

First Contact remains committed to providing comprehensive support to individuals and families affected by disasters. This partnership underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in building stronger, more resilient communities.

For more information about First Contact’s disaster relief initiatives or to find out how you can support, please visit FirstContact.org

First Contact Celebrates Veterans and Supports the Community with Dedicated Programs and Partnerships

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 22:56:39 GMT

First Contact is proud to honor veterans this November, recognizing their invaluable service to our nation and their continued contributions to our community. Through tailored programs, partnerships with veteran-focused organizations, and the dedication of veterans on our own team, First Contact remains committed to providing comprehensive support for veterans and their families.

Programs Designed for Veterans

First Contact ensures veterans and their families receive the help they need through specialized services offered via its 211 and 988 lines.

211 Helpline : Veterans can access resources for food, housing, financial support, and more, with referrals tailored to meet their unique needs.
988 Crisis Line : Veterans in crisis are provided with immediate, confidential mental health support and connections to veteran-specific counseling and peer services.
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Through SSVF and in partnership with St. Vincent de Paul CARES, veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their housing receive essential support, including rapid rehousing, rental assistance, and case management services.
Veterans Support Line: A dedicated line offering veterans and their families direct access to specialized support services, ensuring their unique needs are met promptly and compassionately.
Mental Health Counseling: Access to counseling services addressing challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, with connections to veteran-specific care providers.
Housing Support: Assistance for veterans seeking stable housing, including connections to affordable housing programs and temporary shelter resources.

Celebrating Veterans on the First Contact Team

This month, First Contact is also celebrating the veterans within its staff, whose skills, leadership, and dedication to service enrich the organization. "The veterans on our team embody resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to service that continues to inspire us every day," said Micki Thompson, President/CEO of First Contact. "Their unique perspectives and steadfast devotion to both our country and our community remind us of the extraordinary impact one can have through courage and compassion."

Partnerships Supporting Veteran Well-Being

First Contact collaborates with numerous veteran-focused organizations in the Tampa Bay area to ensure veterans have access to comprehensive support. These partnerships enable veterans to connect with mental health care, job training, housing assistance, and other essential services.

“Our community partners play an essential role in supporting the well-being of veterans, and we are very proud to work alongside them,” added Thompson. “Together, we’re building a stronger community where veterans can thrive.”

A Continued Commitment

As the nation celebrates Veterans this November, First Contact remains steadfast in its commitment to serving veterans year-round. Whether through crisis intervention, resource referrals, or support services, First Contact ensures that those who have given so much to our country receive the care they deserve.

To learn more about First Contact’s veteran support programs, please visit us at FirstContact.org .

First Contact Partners with Airbnb.org to Provide Housing for Disaster Survivors

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 20:11:13 GMT

Pictured: Christoph Gorder, Executive Director Airbnb.org; Micki Thompson, President/CEO First Contact; Kylie Holmes, Head of Global Emergency Response, Airbnb.org

In the aftermath of two back-to-back hurricanes, Helene and Milton, which swept through our region in just 13 days, many first responders and disaster response staff found themselves in a devastating situation—they lost their own homes while helping others. At First Contact , we are proud to announce our partnership with Airbnb.org to provide temporary housing solutions for these incredible individuals and other disaster survivors.

Through Airbnb.org , we’ve been able to secure credits for stays at Airbnb properties, offering a safe, secure, and comfortable place for families who are facing homelessness in the wake of these unprecedented disasters in the Tampa Bay Region. To date, we’ve successfully housed 66 families, including 138 adults, 46 children, and 67 pets, thanks to this partnership. Beyond providing shelter, this initiative gives families a much-needed sense of stability during an otherwise overwhelming time.

The Power of Partnership: First Contact and Airbnb.org

Airbnb.org , a nonprofit organization that focuses on emergency shelter for people displaced by disasters, has been an incredible partner in this endeavor. Their global reach and commitment to supporting communities in crisis are truly inspiring. By working together, we’ve been able to respond quickly and effectively, ensuring that those who’ve lost their homes can find comfort, even in the midst of chaos.

At First Contact , we’ve always been committed to helping those in need during challenging times, and partnering with Airbnb.org has allowed us to expand that mission. With their support, we’re able to provide first responders and disaster recovery staff—who are often overlooked despite their crucial role—with a safe haven where they can rest and recover while they continue to help others.

We’re honored to work alongside Airbnb.org and to play a part in helping these unsung heroes and their families. “Thank you to Airbnb.org and the Airbnb hosts for providing this incredible opportunity to help the helpers needing help themselves” said Micki Thompson, President/CEO of First Contact . “Together, we’re not only providing shelter, but also hope, security, and a sense of community.”

As we continue our disaster recovery efforts, we’re reminded of the resilience and strength of our community. With partners like Airbnb.org , we know that even in the face of once-in-a-lifetime challenges, we can rise, rebuild, and recover together.

For more information on our services and how we can assist, please visit us at FirstContact.org .

Introducing First Contact: A New Name, Same Commitment to Community

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 20:12:18 GMT

After 50 years of dedicated service to our community, we are proud to announce an exciting change! As of October 2, 2024, 211 Tampa Bay Cares is officially rebranding to First Contact . This new name reflects our mission to be the first point of contact for individuals, families, and seniors in need, while continuing to expand the critical services we provide.

The new name, First Contact , captures our role as a trusted lifeline for those seeking assistance, not only through our well-known 211 services but also as the provider of 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline services for those in need of mental health support. We operate several specialized hotlines that serve survivors of sexual assault, veterans, first responders, and seniors, ensuring that vulnerable populations in our community receive the care and assistance they deserve. Additionally, First Contact offers financial assistance for adults without minor children, addressing an often-overlooked segment of our community.

Our new name reflects the evolution of our services, but our commitment to improving lives through information, connection, and hope remains unchanged. This is especially true now as we manage the significant impact of Hurricane Helene on our community. In the coming weeks, we will continue to focus all efforts on disaster response and recovery, working around the clock to be there for those in need. We understand that many families are still reeling from the effects of the storm, and our priority is to assist in the recovery process.

As Micki Thompson, our President and CEO, put it: "We want to ensure the community knows that we are still the same compassionate, reliable, and impactful organization they have come to trust, but with a new name that better represents the essential work we do."

We are here to help, no matter the challenge, and as First Contact , we will continue to empower our community with the information, connections and support they need to overcome any obstacle.

We are honored to serve as a lifeline to our community, especially in moments like these. Thank you for trusting us with your needs and for standing by our side as we move forward as First Contact .

For more information on our services and how we can assist, please visit us at FirstContact.org .

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