San Francisco launches street crisis response team to divert mental health calls from police

In the heart of San Francisco, city officials gathered to discuss the ongoing challenges and advancements in public health and safety, particularly in response to the mental health crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the meeting unfolded, the toll of the pandemic on city staff was acknowledged, with many having been deployed to assist in the COVID response. However, a sense of optimism permeated the room as officials reported on the return of these staff members to their home departments, signaling a shift towards recovery.

A significant focus of the meeting was the update on the Street Crisis Response Team (SCRT), a program designed to provide immediate, trauma-informed support to individuals experiencing behavioral health crises. This initiative, rooted in the Mental Health SF legislation passed in late 2019, aims to offer alternatives to police intervention in non-violent situations, aligning with Mayor London Breed's commitment to police reform.

Dr. Almeida, a key figure in the presentation, emphasized the SCRT's mission to divert 911 calls related to mental health crises away from law enforcement. The team, comprising a behavioral health clinician, a peer health worker, and a community paramedic, is equipped to respond to situations without active violence, thereby reducing unnecessary police encounters and emergency room visits. This innovative approach not only addresses immediate crises but also provides follow-up support to prevent future incidents.

As of May 2025, the SCRT has responded to approximately 1,500 calls, successfully diverting 37% of these from law enforcement. The program has demonstrated a consistent response time of around 15 minutes, with 59% of cases resolved on-site, allowing individuals to remain safely in their communities. Notably, the inclusion of peer health workers—individuals with lived experience—has been highlighted as a unique and valuable aspect of the program, fostering trust and connection within the community.

The meeting also touched on the importance of geographic coverage, with teams strategically deployed across the city to build relationships and respond dynamically to community needs. The Tenderloin and Mission-Castro neighborhoods have seen the highest volume of calls, while efforts are being made to engage communities like Bayview, where residents may be hesitant to call 911.

As the city continues to navigate the complexities of mental health crises, the SCRT stands as a beacon of hope, illustrating a commitment to compassionate care and community-based solutions. With plans for additional teams and expanded coverage, San Francisco is poised to enhance its response to behavioral health emergencies, paving the way for a more supportive and understanding approach to mental health in the city.