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Lock Haven OKs Co‑Responder Grant to Add Social‑Worker Support for Crisis Calls
Summary
Council authorized participation in a co-responder program funded by a grant through 2026 that will place a civilian social worker to assist police with crisis calls, provide de-escalation and treatment referrals, and reduce incarceration risk; council asked for reporting on program outcomes.
Lock Haven City Council voted Aug. 5 to authorize participation in a police co-responder program that would bring a civilian social‑worker responder to assist officers on crisis calls.
Staff explained the grant-funded program is provided through the Center for Community Resources and would pay for the co‑responder through 2026. The co‑responder’s role was described as providing crisis intervention, de‑escalation, coordinating referrals to treatment, and diverting individuals from incarceration where appropriate. A council member asked whether the co‑responders are mental‑health specialists or officers; staff confirmed they are social workers.
Council also asked whether program feedback could be included in regular police reports so the public can see outcomes; staff agreed to explore reporting options. A motion to authorize participation and accept grant support was moved, seconded and approved by the council.
Staff will coordinate details of staffing and reporting with the police department and the Center for Community Resources before the program begins.
