California law enforcement agencies are embracing new approaches to mental health crisis calls. But some activists still want a solution without police, including volunteers in Nevada County who came together after a fatal shooting.
Star Vista’s Community Wellness and Crisis Response Team
San Mateo’s participation in a pilot mental health crisis program has led to better interactions and collaboration between the public and its police department, with San Mateo Police Chief Ed Barberini praising the program’s initial start.
San Mateo Assessment and Referral Team
Implemented in 2005, the San Mateo Assessment and Referral Team (SMART) program is the first and only of its kind in California. Developed in collaboration between multiple agencies as a community resource, the program is funded in part by Measure K and the Mental Health Services Act. There are currently two SMART vans covering the county from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Juvenile Justice Mental Health Services
SHIELDS’ Juvenile Justice Mental Health programs provide treatment and diversion programs that result in better outcomes for the youth and their families and less recidivism back into the juvenile and criminal justice systems.
Criminal Justice Services
The Criminal Justice Services program is designed to address the behavioral health needs of individuals with mental health, substance use disorders, or both who are involved in the criminal justice system.