In our school district, we care deeply about the well-being of every student and family. Life can bring challenges that feel overwhelming, and it’s important to remember that you don’t have to navigate those moments alone. Seeking professional mental health support is a sign of strength, not weakness. If your child, or anyone in your family, is struggling with stress, anxiety, sadness, behavioral changes, or other concerns, we strongly encourage you to connect with a qualified mental health professional. Early support can make a meaningful difference.
Please know that the Pawtucket School Department is working closely with our schools to ensure that counseling and support services are available when students return from break. This includes access to school social workers, mental health professionals, and additional wellness resources to help students process emotions in healthy and supportive ways.
Below, we have provided a list of trusted local and community-based mental health resources to help you get started. We encourage you to review these options and reach out when needed. Taking that first step can open the door to healing, growth, and renewed hope. Our school community is here to support you, and we believe that caring for mental health is an essential part of caring for the whole child.
Resources:
- RI Statewide Virtual Support Hub for People Impacted by the Lynch Arena Shooting – A series of helpful resources to help Rhode Islanders in all impacted communities navigate this difficult time.
- Hazel Health – access to 1-on-1
online therapy for all Pawtucket School students. By partnering with your schools, Hazel Health visits are at no cost to your family.You can also participate in your child’s visits virtually, from home or from work with a licensed therapist that specializes in kids and teens.
Scan the QR code to sign up,
or call 888-541-7063 to schedule your intake.For more information please visit Hazel Health.
- Gateway Healthcare – Gateway Healthcare provides outstanding treatment, intervention and prevention services to adults and children of all cultural and economic backgrounds with behavioral and substance abuse issues, through its residential, outpatient and community-based programs.
- The Blackstone Valley Visitors Center (175 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI) – The City of Pawtucket is committed to providing care and support for our community’s healing. Beginning February 18, the Visitors Center will be open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM for individuals who were present during the shooting and their families. Organizations offering behavioral health support include:
– Family Service of Rhode Island
– RI Medical Reserve Corps – Trauma Response Team
– American Red Cross
- Brown University Health – Talking to youth about gun violence (Click the link to access the zoom) – A free 60-minute virtual training designed to help adults understand their own feelings in order to have a productive conversation about the event.
February 20, 2026, at 10:00am | February 20, 2026, at 12:00pm | February 25, 2026, at 7:00am | March 7, 2026 from 9:00am-12:00pm