Eugene Police Department has launched a new program in collaboration with Lane County Behavioral Health professionals to respond to mental health-related calls in downtown Eugene. This initiative aims to provide non-criminal situations with the necessary resources to prevent escalation and help individuals get on a path to wellness. By stabilizing individuals, there will be fewer calls for police service, ultimately improving safety in the area.
The program is initially funded through the Community Safety Payroll Tax and will now expand with the help of a $550,000 Bureau of Justice Assistance grant. This grant will allow for the addition of a second co-responder and a peer support specialist, who will work alongside police officers in civilian clothes to address mental health-related calls effectively. The program collaborates with Lane County and complements CAHOOTS, a mobile crisis intervention service in Eugene, by providing resources and case management for more complex and potentially risky calls.
Police Chief Chris Skinner envisions expanding the program city-wide in the future, with the support of Lane County’s plans to establish a stabilization center as an alternative to jail for individuals with behavioral health issues. By providing individuals with the necessary resources and support, the aim is to improve safety and the overall sense of well-being in the community.
