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Pharr Police mental-health unit honored with Martha Arbuckle Award from Texas governor's committee
Summary
The Pharr Police Department’s Mental Health Unit received the Martha Arbuckle Award from the Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities, recognized for collaboration, inclusion and its Mental Health Alliance work.
Pharr — The Pharr Police Department’s Mental Health Unit accepted the Martha Arbuckle Award from the Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities, city officials said at a regularly scheduled Pharr City Commission meeting.
The department received the award for collaboration, inclusion and community engagement through the Mental Health Alliance and its partnerships with local nonprofits, Workforce Solutions Lower Rio Grande Valley and area schools. The commission heard that the department was the only law-enforcement agency in Texas to receive the recognition at this year’s awards, which were presented in San Antonio.
Juan Gonzalez, director for the Police Department, described the unit’s work as a multiagency effort. “We have been collaborating with local nonprofits and agencies and other departments down here in South Texas,” Gonzalez said, thanking staff and partner agencies for a collective effort to submit the application.
Jackie Rodriguez, a Mental Health Unit member, said the award recognizes the work that has helped create community spaces where “law enforcement, mental-health professionals, and community members come together to listen, learn, and lead meaningful changes.”
The award citation given to the city noted the unit’s contributions to the Mental Health Alliance and collaboration with Workforce Solutions Lower Rio Grande Valley. City remarks said the recognition highlights inclusion and innovation in serving residents with disabilities and special needs.
Context: The presentation at the dais included remarks that the awards program highlights employers and organizations that create inclusive hiring, services and community collaboration. City leaders said they hope the recognition will encourage other agencies and organizations in South Texas to develop similar partnerships.
Ending: The commission offered congratulations and invited the department leadership and unit members to join the dais for photos.
