The Crisis Response Team (CCRT) program in Winnebago County, Illinois is up for renewal three years after it was launched to provide mental health resources to people with behavioral health issues and keep them out of jail.
The program, which involves licensed social workers accompanying police officers to certain calls, aims to reduce police-involved shootings by bridging the gap between law enforcement and mental health patients.
The CCRT has had over 6,400 interactions with police since its inception and has helped provide alternative mental health assistance to those in need.
The Winnebago County Health Board funds the CCRT, and the Rockford City Council has already approved renewing the agreement.
The Winnebago County Board is also expected to approve the funding renewal.
The CCRT has played a vital role in providing an overall sense of wellness for the community by providing follow-up assistance to people in need.
