Crisis intervention program saves at-risk youth from tragedy

During a recent government meeting, President Conoco inquired about the staffing and operational status of the Partners in Care program, which focuses on mental health and substance use crisis intervention. The program is currently fully staffed with a community liaison, two senior social workers, and two crisis intervention police officers, available Monday through Friday from 6 AM to 9 PM. However, 24-hour coverage for social workers is not yet in place, as it would require significantly increasing the team size.

The program, which has been operational for just over six months, has already made a notable impact. A highlighted case involved a 14-year-old experiencing suicidal and homicidal thoughts. The team successfully intervened, de-escalating the situation and providing necessary support to both the child and their family.

The meeting also touched on the potential for expanding the program to offer round-the-clock social worker availability, a goal that may be considered in future planning. The discussion underscored the program's importance in addressing community mental health needs and its positive outcomes thus far.

Following this, Lieutenant Bozeman provided updates on the community engagement unit, which has been active for nearly two years, emphasizing ongoing efforts to strengthen community relations and support.