County‑funded peer respite program described at Tarentum meeting as possible crisis‑diversion option

Representatives from Unity, a local nonprofit, briefed Tarentum Borough Council and attendees on plans for a peer‑respite program intended to provide short‑term, non‑clinical stays for people experiencing mental‑health crises.

Christina (last name not provided) and colleagues said the county‑funded pilot aims to offer 3‑to‑5‑bed facilities (ideally five) where people could stay for several days with peer support and nonclinical services to stabilize a crisis and avoid hospitalization when appropriate. They said some funding would come through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services and managed‑care reinvestment dollars, and that the county would underwrite space for services not covered by Medicaid.

"We're looking at public‑safety data and we're curious how many of those calls were for mental‑health crises," the presenter said, explaining the program intends to work closely with mobile crisis units, Resolve and EMS providers to accept appropriate referrals and to provide transportation back to a client's home community when needed.

Council members and EMS/Fire representatives asked operational questions about beds, staff levels and transportation. Presenters said the program would be nonclinical (no medication administration on site), would have a minimum of two staff on site at all times and plans to become Medicaid billable. Council asked for follow‑up contact information and indicated willingness to continue the conversation as the county determines locations and funding details.

No formal action was taken; presenters asked only to meet with local leaders while site selection and program design proceeds.