Jefferson and Lewis County launch mobile crisis initiative by July 1

Lewis County officials are making significant strides toward establishing a mobile crisis response system, with plans to launch by July 1, 2025. This initiative, a collaborative effort with Jefferson County, aims to enhance mental health crisis services in the region, addressing a critical gap in support for residents experiencing behavioral health emergencies.

During a recent legislative committee meeting, county representatives outlined the progress made in developing this system, which has been in the works for several years. The mobile crisis provider has been identified as the Children's Home, and the project is being guided by insights from a comprehensive data analysis conducted by the Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization (FDRHPO). This analysis highlighted the need for improved crisis services, particularly in the Watertown area, which accounted for nearly half of all crisis calls in the two counties.

The decision to pursue a bi-county approach was driven by financial sustainability concerns, as Lewis County alone lacked the volume of crisis calls necessary to support a standalone mobile crisis service. By partnering with Jefferson County, officials believe they can create a more effective and efficient system. The initiative is supported by $600,000 in startup funding from the state, aimed at establishing a comprehensive crisis response framework.

The meeting also addressed the current state of crisis services, noting that while both counties have separate hotline numbers providing 24/7 coverage, neither has a mobile crisis unit. Jefferson County has operated a hybrid system with follow-up support, but both counties recognized the need for a more robust response to mental health crises.

As the project moves forward, stakeholders will continue to refine the implementation plan, ensuring that the new mobile crisis service meets the needs of the community effectively. The collaborative effort is expected to significantly improve access to mental health resources, providing timely support to individuals in crisis and ultimately enhancing the overall well-being of residents in Lewis and Jefferson Counties.