Philly teams average 20 daily mental health emergencies

Philadelphia's Community Mobile Crisis Response Teams are facing increased demand, averaging 20 mental health emergencies each day. Advocates and health officials are urging the city to provide more funding to expand the program and improve services. These crisis response teams, made up of clinicians, nurses, and social workers, operate 24/7. They respond to calls from the national 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. Many believe these teams are essential for supporting residents during times of crisis. Between January 2023 and January 2025, the teams answered over 14,000 calls. This program is distinct from the city's Crisis Intervention Response Team, which involves police officers. Advocates, like social worker Julia Lyon, emphasize that funding should prioritize community models over police-involved responses. Issues like staffing shortages and pay for crisis specialists pose challenges for the program. Currently, there is a request for nearly $21.5 million in the upcoming city budget to enhance services, including new technology to track team locations in real-time. The city plans to reconsider its contract with the Consortium, which services West Philadelphia. The organization is appealing a decision stating it defaulted on its contract obligations. DBHIDS officials assure that services will continue, ensuring no gaps occur. For those in crisis, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available at 988, offering support 24/7.