Throughout Northern Virginia and across the country, we grieve for those lost in last night’s fatal crash involving a commercial plane and Army helicopter from Fort Belvoir at Washington National Airport.

Many of us held out hope last night for loved ones, friends, co-workers, people we served with, and volunteers and today our reality is somber and heart-wrenching. Those of us with children struggle to know how to talk about this tragedy. Those of us who may be struggling already with their recovery, life’s pressures, and trauma may feel the grip of this horror even more profoundly.

Please remember that you are not alone.

• If you are a parent or caregiver and are looking for resources on how to talk to your child, our partners at the National Institute of Mental Health have put together a toolkit HERE.

• If you are looking for support or resources, the NAMI HelpLine is here for you:

800-950-6264 (M–F, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET)

Text “HELPLINE” to 62640 or visit nami.org/help

• If you or a loved one is in crisis, 24/7 support is available, call or text the 988 Lifeline (9-8-8 on any phone).

Our eternal thanks go out to the brave first responders and emergency services who mobilized and supported the emergency efforts. Together with other regional partners, our men and women were there for anything they were called upon to do, and we are grateful to you, today and every day.

Friends, NAMI Northern Virginia grieves with you. And we are here to help. Please reach out and we will reach back.

In peace,

Executive Director