Syracuse officials discuss challenges in supporting 50 individuals post-Project Heal

The Syracuse Public Safety Committee meeting on April 7, 2025, highlighted significant challenges in supporting vulnerable individuals following the abrupt termination of Project Heal. Committee members expressed deep concern over the sudden loss of resources, which left only three outreach workers to assist 50 individuals in need.

The discussion revealed that the contract for Project Heal ended unexpectedly on September 10, with no prior notice to the committee, creating a six-month gap in services. One committee member likened the situation to "falling off a cliff," emphasizing the drastic reduction in support staff from nearly 20 to just nine. The lack of trained personnel has raised alarms about the quality of care being provided to those who rely on these services.

Dr. Wright, a key figure in the meeting, noted that the current team of five therapists can only handle a limited caseload, further complicating the situation. The committee is now working to rebuild its capacity by meeting regularly with probation and law enforcement to identify more individuals who need assistance.

Despite these setbacks, there was some positive news regarding workforce development. Many individuals have found jobs, with some even pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. The committee acknowledged the importance of providing job opportunities over traditional educational incentives, as many participants are eager to work to support their families.

Looking ahead, the committee is committed to improving training for outreach workers and ensuring that future contracts require qualified personnel. The overarching goal remains clear: to save lives and provide meaningful support to those in need. The meeting concluded with a shared sense of urgency to address these challenges and a commitment to better serve the community moving forward.