Mental Health Response Program in Chicago Expands

Chicago is increasing the number of mental health crisis response teams operating in the city.

Known as CARE teams, the units are staffed by paramedics trained in mental health crisis response.

The teams operate with vans stocked with blankets, Narcan, toiletries, snacks, and other essentials, and they are dispatched to 911 calls flagged as having a mental health component.

Their mission is to resolve crises safely and reduce the number of arrests while freeing up EMS responders for other medical emergencies.

Recent data underscores their effectiveness, CBS Chicago reports. Between September 2021 and September 2024, the CARE teams responded to over 1,500 calls, with arrests and use-of-force incidents occurring in less than 0.1% of cases.

In the last month alone, they handled 60 calls, helping individuals in distress—including those contemplating self-harm.

While the CARE teams currently serve four police districts, the city recently announced plans to expand the program to two more districts on the South and Near West Sides.

Visit CBS Chicago for more.

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