Expanding the First Call Program: Five Cities Unite to Provide Mental Health Crisis Support

Four cities, including Shaker Heights, have recently joined the “First Call” program. The program pairs mental health professionals with police or fire departments responding to mental health crises, and has now expanded to include five cities. Annette Amistadi, a social worker from Shaker Heights, emphasized the importance of having the right personnel respond to emergency situations.

The “First Call” program is set to begin in the new cities by early summer. In Shaker Heights alone, the program received 645 referrals last year. The success seen in Shaker Heights has encouraged other cities like Cleveland Heights to join.

Cleveland Heights Mayor Kahlil Seren emphasized the importance of the program, stating that there are people in his city who are in need of help. With the expansion, there will be four new mental health professionals and three peer support workers to cover the increased area. The team will work together to assess problems, determine necessary steps, and provide ongoing care to prevent future crises.

Amistadi explained how the program works with first responders ensuring the scene is safe before mental health professionals assist in deescalation. She highlighted that having the right personnel respond to emergency situations is crucial for successful outcomes.