By Blake Haas

BLOOMINGTON – A Bloomington call center needs volunteers as many people deal with emotional issues tied to COVID-19.

According to PATH Executive Director Karen Zangerle, PATH Crisis has seen a rise in needed support since the start of the Coronavirus pandemic that has left the call center in need of volunteers.

“We are taking calls that are, let me just say, an increase in callers who are depressed. The length of time that this pandemic has gone on, the huge financial question for some people is how they are going to get things back on track. Knowing when (and) where to find help, when help is needed. And those calls are taken by our volunteers.”

Zangerle told WJBC’s Marc Strauss that to become a volunteer; people would need to participate in a class that begins Feb. 3.

“We really really need people, and I would like to get more people who are from the community than students.”

The crisis line, which provides emotional support, is operated by volunteers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Those in need of emotional support can dial 2-1-1.

To become a PATH Crisis volunteer, Zangerle said people could fill out an application at PATHCrisis.org.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].