In the wake of the deadly Castle Peak Avalanche, the town of Truckee and Placer County are pointing residents and visitors to a range of mental health and crisis-support resources, including a safe space being offered this week at a downtown Truckee church.
Rebecca Irelan, the pastor at the Church of the Mountains, said the church will open its doors throughout the week for Truckee residents and people traveling from out of town.
“Time when we are often isolated and disconnected and people traveling back and forth from the Bay Area to here and maybe not having a stable community to relate to,” Irelan said. “Communities like churches provide that and synagogues and so we want to remind people that there are places that are anchored in this community that can be there as resource for them.”
People can visit the church tomorrow through Friday from noon to 2 p.m.
“I’ve been a pastor for 35 years, I have been through lots of disasters and tragedies in the places that I’ve served,” Irelan said. “So I have a degree in life and if they want to come ask me questions, ask about resources or just be here for prayer or just a listening ear. That’s what I’m here for.”
The town manager also urged people who are struggling to seek help, saying in a statement: “We encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out for support. … Connection Point 211 is a great source and hub for providing information and referrals, Dial 2-1-1.”
The Church of the Mountains said people who need additional support can book an appointment by calling the church for help connecting with resources.
Crisis teams and counseling services are also available across Nevada and Placer counties, including:
Mental Health Matters (Nevada County): 530-265-5811
Placer County Mobile Crisis Team: 1-888-886-5401
Nevada County Crisis Services & Support (24-hour): 1-888-801-1437
Tahoe Forest Health System Behavioral Health: 530-582-3505
Placer County Mental Health Services: 916-787-8800
Connection Point 211 (24/7): Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211connectingpoint.org/castle-peak-avalanche-mental-health-resources
People can also call or text 9-8-8 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.