History of BRANCH

In the wake of the Apalachee High School tragedy, the Barrow County community came together with urgency, compassion, and resolve. Out of this response, BRANCH (Barrow Response and Needs Center for Healing) was created as a dedicated space to support those most affected.

BRANCH is an initiative of Ministry Village, which has served Barrow County since 2012 through practical care, mental health services, and crisis response. When the tragedy at Apalachee occurred, Ministry Village immediately stepped in to provide counseling, coordinate community support, and mobilize local resources.

But we knew that short-term support wasn’t enough. The trauma, grief, and emotional disruption experienced by students, families, and staff would require long-term, intentional healing. So with the help of partners, professionals, and concerned citizens, we launched BRANCH—a center designed for ongoing care, trauma recovery, and personalized healing journeys for those impacted.

This is not just a response. It’s a commitment.

BRANCH is rooted in the belief that healing is possible when people feel seen, supported, and safe. That’s why everything we do is grounded in trauma-informed care and long-term recovery planning.

We are here. For as long as it takes.