Crisis Response Program

The Community Assistance Program (CAP) was launched in July 1995 as a volunteer-based initiative with a single Crisis Response unit. Initially, the program operated as a co-response model alongside the Fire Department. Between 2006 and 2021, CAP expanded its scope to include co-response with the Police Department. In Fiscal Year 2021–2022, the Mayor and City Council approved a $15 million investment to significantly expand CAP. This funding supported the addition of nine Behavioral Health units and the growth of Crisis Response units from five to ten, enhancing the city’s capacity to support residents experiencing mental health crises. Crisis Response units are automatically dispatched to high-priority incidents including infant / child codes, major medical emergencies, working fires, drownings, and other violent acts. Crisis Response units provide scene support in providing grief counseling and connection to community-based resources.