San Francisco's Street Crisis Response Team expands to provide 24/7 support

The San Francisco County government meeting on July 4, 2025, focused on the ongoing efforts to improve emergency response services, particularly for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises. Key discussions centered around the implementation and effectiveness of various street response initiatives designed to provide alternatives to traditional police involvement.

Assistant Chief Pang highlighted the significant role of the fire department in emergency medical services, noting that approximately 21% of ambulance transports involve individuals experiencing homelessness. This demographic, along with frequent 911 users, represents a substantial portion of the department's call volume. The fire department's street response teams aim to address these needs by providing timely medical care and connecting individuals to necessary resources, thereby reducing ambulance call volume and emergency room overcrowding.

The meeting also introduced the Street Crisis Response Team (SCRT), which was established to offer a rapid, trauma-informed response to behavioral health crises. This initiative aligns with the city's commitment to police reform and community engagement. The SCRT operates primarily through 911 dispatch, allowing for a diversion from law enforcement responses. The team includes paramedics, behavioral health clinicians, and peer support specialists, ensuring a holistic approach to crisis intervention.

Since its launch in November 2021, the SCRT has expanded to six teams providing 24/7 coverage across the city. These teams not only respond to calls but also proactively engage with individuals in public spaces to build community trust. Data presented during the meeting indicated that the SCRT has handled a significant volume of calls, although staffing challenges have impacted their capacity.

Deputy Director Robert Smuts addressed data discrepancies in call responses between the police department and the SCRT, explaining that the current dispatch system has limitations that may lead to overlapping call counts. He emphasized the need for a new computer-aided dispatch system to improve accuracy in tracking responses.

Overall, the meeting underscored San Francisco's commitment to innovative emergency response strategies that prioritize health and safety while reducing reliance on police intervention. The ongoing evaluation and expansion of these programs aim to enhance service delivery and community well-being in the face of rising demand for mental health support.