Emergency Volunteer Opportunity - Blizzard Shelter Activation
DE BEST has been activated by DSAMH to support a shelter opening at Sussex County High School in response to severe winter weather conditions.
This deployment provides a calm, supportive, and confidential space where residents and responders may voluntarily access Psychological First Aid (PFA) and mental wellness
resources.
Immediate staffing support is needed.
Transportation assistance: Transportation via the Delaware National Guard may be available if travel conditions are unsafe. Contact Celeste Peart at 302-383-3130 immediately if transport support is needed.
DE BEST Contact: Celeste Peart - 302-383-3130
On-Site Contact: Becky Smith - 302.423.4688
Your Role as a Volunteer
- Provide calm, supportive presence within the shelter environment
- Offer basic Psychological First Aid (PFA) using Prepare, Look, Listen, Link, Refer, Disengage
- Conduct informal check-ins with residents and responders
- Distribute Hope Line and other mental wellness resources
- Coordinate with DSAMH staff and shelter leadership
Prepare for Your Shift
Winter travel conditions are expected. Please only sign up if you can travel safely. If transportation is needed, call Celeste immediately to coordinate National Guard transport.
- Dress for extreme cold - layers, waterproof footwear, hat, gloves
- Bring your DE BEST vest and ID badge
- Bring a fully charged phone and portable charger
- Bring water and snacks
- Carry Hope Line cards and additional support resources if available
Volunteer Requirements
- Must be confirmed as deployment-eligible by DE BEST staff
- PFA training completed
- Completed Code of Conduct and onboarding documentation via SERVDE.org
After You Sign Up
- A shift reminder will be sent prior to start time
- Clock in/out using: the Causer app or web portal link provided in your confirmation email
- After your shift, please report:
- Approximate number of individuals engaged
- Number of resources distributed
- Any notable unmet needs or responder concerns
Need Assistance?
Email DEBESTvolunteers@gmail.com with questions or special considerations.
