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Offering an additional resource for students and families coping with a prolonged school closure and the uncertainties of COVID-19, Beaufort County Schools has established a school closure hotline.

According to BCS Student Services Director Ashley Padgett, the school system’s hotline will be available to share information about resources from noon to 2 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. The number for the hotline is 252-940-6546.

The school system is also partnering with Integrated Family Services to offer crisis counseling for all BCS staff, students, parents, family and friends. The Crisis CHAT Line will be available to offer emotional support 24 hours a day.

“Trained chat specialists are available to assist individuals who are depressed, going through a hard time, need to talk or having thoughts of hurting themselves,” Padgett posted on social media. “Any life issues may be discussed utilizing the Crisis CHAT line. The goal of Integrated Family Services’ Crisis CHAT line is to help you and others reduce stress and feel empowered to make healthy decisions.”

The service is free, and can be accessed by visiting www.integratedfamilyservices.net

and clicking the “chat with us” icon at the top of the page.