In kitchens nationwide, workers know that when they hear “Behind you,” someone is close by. In an industry like ours—often characterized by long shifts, loud kitchens, sharp tools, and high stress—a strong support system changes everything. We all need someone behind us.
Through our mental health program, Behind You, Southern Smoke provides access to no-cost counseling for food and beverage workers.
Qualifications:
Individuals must work in the food and beverage industry for at least 30 hours weekly (60 hours bi-weekly) for at least six months with a taxable income. Multiple roles within the industry are acceptable, provided they collectively meet the hourly requirement.
Services available in:
California, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Washington D.C.
Those who live outside of the service states can apply for financial assistance to cover mental health care needs through our Emergency Relief Fund.
Rest assured, your information is kept private every step of the way and we’ll reach out shortly. Expect to hear from us about how we can best help.
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For mental health emergencies, your safety is very important to us, so we want to encourage you to contact 9-1-1 or go to the emergency room and ask for a mental health professional if you are experiencing a mental health crisis.
Please note, Southern Smoke Foundation does not provide crisis intervention mental health services and we have listed other potential referrals and resources below. While they are not official Southern Smoke partners, they may be of support to you at this time:988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
988 offers 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress.
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741 to reach a Crisis Counselor
Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, providing 24/7 counseling support