In 2013, the people behind the youth outreach program DoSomething.org began noticing that young people text more than they do talk, and so they developed the Crisis Text Line. The now 3-year-old operation instantly connects volunteer counselors with anyone who feels the need to “type” in – such as those contemplating suicide, or dealing with domestic abuse – with the goal to listen, engage, offer advice and prevent harm.
The Crisis Text Line can be reached by texting 741741 and is free on most carriers. Learn more about the Crisis Text Line and one of its volunteers, Barb Childs, in this Portland Press Herald article.