Organizations and collaboratives in Nash, Edgecombe, Robeson, Columbus, and Bladen counties are working to address the impacts of toxic stress and Adverse Childhood Experiences. The problem is acute in this region that is prone to hurricanes, flooding, and economic dislocation. The communities in the northeastern and southeastern sections of the state are resource starved, which leads to provider shortages and too few services to meet the demand. These counties also have tremendous community leaders and organizations that consistently demonstrate persistence and resilience in the face of challenges. But they need opportunities and resources to access technical assistance and funding to implement trauma informed approaches.

The Trust is interested in hearing from applicants who can convene stakeholders in Southeastern NC to consider greater coordination and system changes that can mitigate trauma and address adverse community conditions such as poverty and systemic racism that drive disparate outcomes. We also are interested in initiatives that build the capacity of people who have been marginalized and communities of color to address adverse childhood experiences in Southeastern NC and in Nash and Edgecombe counties. Competitive applications will directly engage the communities that disproportionately suffer from toxic stress and trauma.