In a recent government meeting, officials highlighted the critical role of the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) and co-responder program in addressing mental health crises within the community. The initiative, which pairs specially trained police officers with licensed mental health professionals, aims to provide immediate support to individuals experiencing mental health emergencies.

The program has seen a significant increase in demand, with mental health-related calls for service rising from 722 in 2020 to 1,479 in 2022. This surge underscores the need for enhanced resources and training for law enforcement to effectively respond to such situations. Officers involved in the CIT are equipped to de-escalate crises, while co-responders, who operate without weapons, focus on providing compassionate care and connecting individuals to necessary services.

One co-responder shared her experience, emphasizing the importance of being a neutral presence during crises. She described how her role involves safety planning and ensuring individuals feel supported, often leading to positive outcomes and connections to ongoing mental health services. The program aims not only to divert individuals from emergency rooms and jails but also to foster a more supportive perception of law enforcement in mental health situations.

Officials encouraged community members to request co-responders when calling 911 for mental health emergencies, reinforcing the message that help is available and that the program is dedicated to serving those in need. The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and awareness of mental health resources within the community.