Huntsman Crisis Center reports high demand and quick intervention for mental health services

In a recent Salt Lake City Council Work Session held on July 1, 2025, officials discussed critical updates on local mental health services and homelessness resources, highlighting ongoing efforts to address pressing community needs.

A significant focus of the meeting was the Huntsman Mental Health Institute Crisis Center, which opened its doors three months ago. The center, designed to provide immediate triage and stabilization for individuals in crisis, features a three-story facility with 30 crisis beds on the first floor and plans to expand to 24 inpatient beds on the third floor. Currently, the center operates at full capacity, having served approximately 2,000 clients, with a notable 11% of those referrals coming from the Salt Lake City Police Department. The average wait time for individuals seeking help has improved to just seven minutes, a significant reduction from earlier figures.

Council members emphasized the importance of the center's role in the broader community, noting that 70% of clients are referred back to their homes for outpatient treatment, which is often more accessible and cost-effective. This approach aligns with the goal of stabilizing individuals quickly and facilitating their transition to longer-term care when necessary.

Additionally, the meeting addressed homelessness resources, particularly the availability of shelter beds in the area. Officials reported that while the Homeless Resource Center's occupancy remains high at around 96%, there are still beds available in Lehi and a first-come, first-served shelter option at St. Vincent de Paul downtown. The upcoming resource fair on July 18 at Library Square, in collaboration with the Veterans Administration, aims to engage veterans and connect them with essential services and housing.

The discussions underscored the city's commitment to enhancing mental health support and homelessness services, reflecting a proactive approach to addressing these intertwined issues. As the council continues to monitor the effectiveness of these programs, community members can expect ongoing improvements and increased accessibility to vital resources.