Texarkana – In an effort to broaden access to emotional and spiritual care, local nonprofit Sterling House has introduced a text‑based outreach service that operates around the clock. By partnering with the Gloo platform, the organization enables residents to send a simple text to 833‑276‑8365 and be connected with a mental‑health coach who can offer guidance, resources, or a listening ear.
How the service works
When a text is received, it is routed directly to the phone of Sterling House founder and administrator Melissa Reddin. “As the administrator, I have a team of people that I can assign people to it,” Reddin explained. “When people text that number, it is coming to my phone.” The service is designed for text messages only; callers are encouraged to use the number for written communication rather than voice calls.
Although the line is staffed by volunteers and not a full‑time operation, responses are sent as soon as a coach is available. The coaches are not licensed therapists, and the organization stresses that the service is not a substitute for professional mental‑health treatment. In emergencies, callers are directed to call the suicide or emergency hotline.
Connecting faith and mental‑health care
Reddin emphasized that the initiative seeks to fill a gap for those who may feel uncomfortable speaking face‑to‑face about personal struggles. “Some people are more comfortable and willing to open up through text than face to face first,” she said. The mental‑health coach can also refer callers to a peer supporter or a chaplain, ensuring that spiritual needs are addressed alongside emotional ones.
“There are a lot of wonderful things happening in this area for the underserved, especially those who need immediate help with mental and spiritual care,” Reddin added. “I’m not looking to reinvent the wheel but to add to it.” Since launching the platform in July 2023, Sterling House reports having assisted nearly 2,000 individuals.
Community impact and future plans
The texting service aligns with Sterling House’s broader mission to serve the greater Texarkana community, particularly those who lack easy access to counseling or church‑based support. By leveraging technology that many already use daily, the nonprofit hopes to reduce barriers such as transportation, stigma, or limited appointment availability.
Local faith leaders have praised the effort as a practical expression of Christian compassion. Pastor James Whitaker of First Baptist Church noted, “Providing a discreet, always‑available way for people to reach out reflects the love and care our faith calls us to extend to our neighbors.”
Looking ahead, Reddin says the organization plans to expand the coach roster and explore additional partnerships with churches and community agencies to broaden the network of resources available through the text line.
How to use the service
Anyone in the greater Texarkana area can text the toll‑free number 833‑276‑8365 at any time. While the line is not staffed 24/7, messages are monitored continuously, and a response will be sent as soon as a volunteer is available. For urgent crises, callers should immediately contact emergency services or the national suicide prevention hotline at 988.
Sterling House encourages residents to share the number with friends, family members, and anyone who might benefit from a confidential, text‑based listening ear.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
