On June 9, 2023, Samaritan Counseling Services of the Gulf Coast was awarded $20,000 by the Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. This grant will support mental health counseling for individuals and families affected by the impacts of Hurricane Ian. “We are grateful to receive this funding to continue helping our local community rebound from Hurricane Ian. Beyond emergency relief are long-lasting impacts that require a collaborative effort.” said Richard O. Howell, Executive Director of Samaritan Counseling. One example is when a counselor met with a family the week following the hurricane. Sessions centered on processing the trauma of the event, building a united response, and reducing reactive behaviors. Through counseling, the family has built resiliency and strength. Now totaling 30 counselors in 11 locations throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties, Samaritan Counseling is on track to provide a combined 17,000 hours to over 2,000 individuals in 2023. This generous investment will continue to instill hope and transform lives in our community.