November 1, 2017
On Tuesday, October 31st, eight people lost their lives in what Mayor Bill de Blasio describes as an “act of terror.” Many more were injured. At Safe Horizon, we are deeply saddened by this attack and our thoughts go out to the victims and their loved ones.
We are working with the FBI and NYPD to provide support to those affected in the coming days and weeks in the following ways:
- Today, the FBI opened a Victim Resource Center at 1 Centre Street in lower Manhattan. A team of expert Safe Horizon victim advocates are there, along with other providers, offering crisis intervention, counseling, and practical assistance to those affected by the attack.
- Safe Horizon is partnering with a public school in the area whose students were exposed to this horrifying event. We are sending experienced social workers into the school to consult with personnel and work directly with students and parents to help them recognize and manage post-traumatic reactions they may experience — such as nightmares, anxiety, or avoidance of reminders of the attack.
For many of us, this event can stir up strong feelings and memories. The political climate may heighten feelings of isolation and vulnerability for immigrant and Muslim members of our communities.