On October 28, 2024, New York City announced the expansion of its Mental Health Crisis Response Teams, which provide non-police interventions for individuals experiencing mental health emergencies. The program, which began as a pilot in 2021, has been widely praised for reducing reliance on law enforcement in situations that require specialized care.
“Everyone deserves compassionate and appropriate care during a mental health crisis,” said Deputy Mayor Anne Williams-Isom at the announcement in the Bronx. The expansion will add 50 new crisis response teams staffed by social workers, therapists, and peer counselors, who will be available 24/7 to respond to calls through 911 and NYC’s mental health hotline.
The initiative prioritizes underserved neighborhoods that have historically faced disparities in mental health care. Crisis responders will also connect individuals to long-term support services, including therapy, housing assistance, and substance abuse programs.
Mental health advocates praised the expansion as a transformative step toward de-escalating emergencies and reducing stigma around mental health issues. The city’s investment underscores its commitment to providing holistic, community-centered care for vulnerable populations.
