ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – The Tompkins County Whole Health Department is set to launch a new initiative.

The Community Outreach Worker Program, a partnership with REACH Medical, will provide mobile supportive services and non-life-threatening crisis response within the City of Ithaca. Staff are trained in de-escalation and will provide emotional support, help with basic needs, and connect people with services.

“The outreach worker role provides valuable supports for members of the public to connect them with essential services and increases availability and visibility of trained crisis responders with boots on the ground,” said TCWH Deputy Commissioner of Mental Health, Harmony Ayers-Friedlander. “REACH Medical is a natural fit for operating this program, given their proven track record of stellar service provision, the compassion embedded in their mission, and their deep understanding of the need to truly meet people where they are.”

The program, in part funded by Tompkins County and the City of Ithaca, will serve people experiencing “non-imminent mental health crises.” REACH workers will respond to calls for individuals appearing distressed or seeking support due to homelessness, drug abuse, mental health disorders, and other chronic or acute stressors.

Staff will be stationed in Downtown Ithaca Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Clinical backup will be available until 8 p.m. Officials say they could change hours based on community needs.

“Our community Outreach Worker Program will provide a consistent presence on the Commons and the surrounding blocks of downtown Ithaca,” said REACH Medical Operations Director Samantha Stevenson. “Our outreach workers are trained in crisis intervention, de-escalation, and trauma-informed care, and are well-versed in connecting people with community resources. They will provide a safe space for people to land when they are in moments of stress or in need of harm reduction support.”

The 1-year pilot program kicks off on March 27.

 

The Community Outreach Worker can be reached by email at commonsoutreach@reachmed.org or by phone (call or text) at (607)-317-0100. People can also call REACH directly at (607)-273-7000, extension 120.