SHREVEPORT, La. — Medical professionals in the Shreveport area are offering free mental health services to the public in the aftermath of Sunday’s mass shooting that left eight children dead.
Brentwood Hospital has partnered with local organizations to host a pop-up mobile clinic at Shreve Memorial Library on Line Avenue. The clinic is open daily from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and is expected to operate over the next several weeks.
Organizers said the effort was launched quickly in response to the tragedy.
“My staff at 8 a.m. yesterday were standing outside my door saying, ‘We’ve got to do something. We’ve got to support Cedar Grove. We’ve got to support the city,’” said William Weaver, CEO of Brentwood Hospital.
The mobile clinic provides a range of services, including blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing and behavioral health screenings. Substance abuse screenings and referrals to additional resources also are available.
Community members visiting the site can access information on coping with grief and trauma. Tables set up outside the unit offer educational materials and snacks, while the interior is arranged to resemble a traditional doctor’s office.
Health officials emphasized that services are available for both adults and children. Psychiatric nurse Kewon Ferrell said children as young as 4 can be seen at the clinic.
“Behavioral health is very important,” Ferrell said. “If you have a problem with your heart, you go to the doctor. If you have a problem with your mind, you can come see us, and we will help you through that as well.”
Organizers noted that mental health needs are widespread, with many individuals requiring support at some point in their lives. They encouraged residents to seek help even if they are unsure whether they need services.
Experts also urged parents to communicate openly with their children during this time.
“When talking to children, it’s important to be honest,” Weaver said. “Answer their questions truthfully, reassure them that they’re safe, that they’re loved and that they’re going to be okay.”
Organizers said they plan to continue offering free services in the coming weeks as the community works to heal.
