On June 30, BHSB hosted a press conference at our office with our partners, the Mayor’s Office, Baltimore Fire Department, Baltimore Police Department and Baltimore Crisis Response to announce updates to the 911 diversion project and $2 million in federal funding coming to BHSB to expand this work.
Watch the press conference
“This marks one year of the implementation of this program. It’s about matching individuals to the most appropriate resources when they are having a behavioral health crisis and avoiding unnecessary police encounters. We are leading in this work here in Baltimore.”
Brandon Scott, Mayor of Baltimore
“With this funding, we will expand the pilot to serve more people, in particular children and youth. More than ever, children and youth in our community are feeling distressed and disconnected. The federal funding will be used to create a youth-specific mobile response team that goes into the community to provide care and follow up support.”
Crista Taylor, BHSB President & CEO
More coverage:
- Baltimore Banner—One year in, Baltimore officials say 911 diversion program needs more time to prove itself
- The Baltimore Sun—Baltimore officials tout benefits of 911 diversion behavioral health pilot, plans for expansion
- WMAR ABC News—Year after launching, 911 diversion behavioral health pilot benefits Baltimore
All photos are from Mayor Scott’s office.