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Tucson updates SAFER center rollout as opioid-settlement grants move into the community
Summary
City staff told the mayor and council the SAFER Center opened Jan. 1 under a six‑month $1.8 million pilot contract, offering 15 beds and up to 96‑hour stays; the Pima County ROSAC approved $5.4 million in first‑year grants and left roughly $1.4 million to rebid after no applicants sought mobile‑med funding.
Lee Hopkins, the city’s community safety, health and wellness resource manager, told the Tucson mayor and council that the SAFER Center began accepting patients on Jan. 1 and that the pilot’s initial contract is $1,800,000 for the first six months. "They started taking patients January 1," Hopkins said, and staff reported a smooth intake process.
Hopkins described the SAFER Center as a 15‑bed sobering‑alternative model that allows stays of up to 96 hours, with access to showers, warm meals, laundry and a cot. The extended stay is intended to give navigators and care coordinators time to develop placements and insurance pre‑approvals and to connect patients with housing, rehab and other services, Hopkins said.
Hopkins opened her update…
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