SUMMERSVILLE, WV (WOAY) – Armor Up West Virginia provides resources to first responders dealing with trauma, substance use, family struggles, and more.
It’s tough for the organization to secure funding because the individuals they help are confidential.
So Wheeling for Hope stepped up to collect donations, presenting a $1,200 check to Armor Up.
“It means everything,” said Armor Up WV President Vanessa Stapleton. “Most of our volunteers are first responder families who need help, and return after they get that help to volunteer with us. So we all know what it’s like and take it very personally.”
It’s such a rewarding feeling to aid people in need.
“To be able to help an organization like this that takes care of their first responders and that encompasses so many people,” said Wheeling for Hope Founder Michelle Riser.
When Ashleigh Sparks’ family needed Armor Up resources, they were there, as there is minimal first responder mental health treatment in Southern West Virginia and beyond. Now she gives back as a volunteer and recommends calling their hotline if you are struggling.
“We basically do everything else for you. It’s a lot easier than you think (versus) trying to find it yourself — or get referrals from other physicians,” Sparks said, adding that first responders answer the hotline, so you will always connect with someone who understands what you go through.
Dispatchers and first responder families watch their loved ones cope with the daily stress of the job.
“They’re the ones there to comfort them and deal with everything they see,” said Riser. “So, for Armor Up to be here and available to first responders is amazing. We’re very proud to be partnered with them. They’re doing wonderful, wonderful work.”
TO LEARN MORE AND FOR HELP
Armor Up Crisis Hotline
206-459-3020
https://armorupwv.weebly.com
