The goal is to establish a new number that residents can call other than the police. A non 9-1-1 phone number would triage calls and dispatch response. A 24/7 mobile team would respond and be led by civilian professionals with expertise in mental health and substance use crises. The city says non-uniform responders would offer trauma-informed and culturally appropriate crisis response services.
The neighbourhood was chosen because of its high community need, central location, and urban accessibility. "Geography allows for the crisis response team to connect with clients on foot or using a van for more discrete intervention." "Applicants will be encouraged to collaborate with other not-for-profit organizations to execute various aspects of the prototype, and they will be encouraged to incorporate details about these partnerships within their application," Freire wrote.Somerset ward Coun. Ariel Troster said she is "delighted" that the program will begin in Centretown.