ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — Ithaca is starting recruitment for unarmed responders. 

It’s called ROOTS, or Responders Offering Outreach, Trust, and Support. Monalita Smiley at the Community Justice Center tells 607 News Now the responders will answer certain calls. 

Four positions are funded in the pilot program, including two part-time responders, Smiley said.

A pilot was approved by the Common Council in February, who also agreed on a budget for the program earlier this month.

FULL INTERVIEW: Community Justice Center Director Monalita Smiley on 607 This Morning