Worcester County Distributes 1,500 Crisis Bags to Support Children During Traumatic Events

Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. announced the distribution of 1,500 crisis bags to law enforcement and first responders across the county to support children during traumatic events, especially those involving substance use. These crisis bags, part of the National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children's Help, Hope, Support initiative, contain age-appropriate comfort items such as teddy bears, coloring books, puzzles, and stress-relief toys designed to provide distraction, comfort, and reassurance to children in crisis. Research indicates that providing such items can lessen the psychological impact of trauma and reduce the likelihood of future substance abuse and criminal justice involvement among affected children. The initiative complements existing programs like Worcester's Handle with Care, which alerts schools when students have experienced trauma, enhancing community support for children's healing. Officials emphasized that trauma is a significant public health and safety issue, and early intervention through these crisis bags can help break cycles of addiction and crime. The Worcester Police and Fire Departments received 400 bags, with the remainder distributed to other departments countywide.