The Warm Line is a pre-crisis resource for those who need someone to talk to but are not in immediate danger.
SAN ANTONIO — Connecting callers with help.
In October, KENS 5 first reported about the NAMI Bexar Warm Line. It is a pre-crisis resource that people can call to get help.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness Greater San Antonio (NAMI) since it launched late last year, they’ve taken more than 2,300 calls and that number is growing.
Jana Castellano is a Warm Line specialist who said it has been busy.
“It says that there is a need,” said Castellano. “There is a great need of people out there who just need someone to listen. I am hearing people who are homeless, some who have recent job loss. I am hearing from people who are grieving the loss of a loved one.”
The Warm Line is for those who need someone to talk to but are not in immediate danger. Castellano said her first approach is just listen and will then connect the caller to resources.
“This a safe place to call with people who have lived experience, so we can relate to a lot of what you may be going through,” she said.
Charlotte Barr and her daughter Charria Harrison Barr have used the NAMI Bexar Warm Line.
“They are the support that I need,” Charlotte said. “They are the experts that I need. The confidence I need. They are the caring that I need. They are everything that I need when my daughter is in need.”
Charlotte got emotional during the interview and said the Warm Line is a Godsend.
“And you are in a situation where you feel helpless,” the mom said. “But with NAMI there is help. There is hope and they have always given that to me.”
Since the warm line started last October, they have taken in 2,371 calls exceeding projections by 137%.
“Take advantage of that help,” Charria said.
The warm line operates seven days a week from a 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. at 210-939-9999.