For most of us, the holidays are a joyful time of the year. Bringing together family members and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's is a special time for many families. For some of us, though, the holidays can be a lonely time, a sad time, a time of missing someone you love, a time of regret. That's where the Samaritans come in.

Samaritans Southcoast Director Darcy Lee joined Townsquare Sunday this week to explain the program and what it does. Lee said the Samaritans is most thought of as a suicide prevention program, but to her it means so much more. Lee said the agency's volunteers will provide emotional help to anyone in need.

She said those who answer calls to the Samaritans are first taught to be good listeners. They're not doctors, therapists, or attorneys. They offer a calming voice, emotional support and reassurance that things can get better.

For anyone who needs emotional help, you can call the Samaritans help line at 1-866-508-4357.

Now, Samaritans Southcoast is offering the same service to seafarers and members of the commercial fishing industry. Samaritans is teaming with an agency from the UK, Befrienders Worldwide, to provide a place where people who earn their living at sea can call.

Lee said it is especially important in New Bedford, with thousands who work on fishing boats, in processing houses and in on-shore businesses, and for seafarers, who often spend weeks and months at sea.

Anyone involved in fishing and maritime industries can seek emotional support by calling (508) 673-3720 locally or 1-508-673-3720 internationally.

The interview with Darcy Lee can be heard here:

Townsquare Sunday is a weekly public affairs program heard every Sunday morning on 1420 WBSM. The program highlights individuals and organizations striving to make the SouthCoast a better place to live and work.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please e-mail the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.

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