Pittsburgh Expands Co-Response Program to Boost Mental Health Crisis Care

Pittsburgh is relaunching and expanding its co-response program, pairing police officers with mental health clinicians. The initiative aims to provide citywide coverage and improve public safety responses. Mayor Corey O’Connor has set the goal of creating a system that is responsive, innovative and focused on people’s needs. The program is a partnership between Pittsburgh’s Office of Community Health and Safety and the police bureau. Currently, it runs from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., but plans are in place to extend these hours. Each co-responder will work alongside an officer, with a total of six co-responders and six integrated responders planned.

Two police leaders will oversee the program to ensure effective community service. Funding for the expansion is already secured, including roles that are yet to be filled. Police Chief Jason Lando believes the program will reduce unnecessary arrests and cut emergency room visits.

Jaime Gribben-Mahoney, a community social worker, recently helped a man access hospital services after building trust with him. The program’s goal is to ensure every person in need receives the right care, regardless of location. The expanded co-response program is designed to serve the entire city. It will pair clinicians with officers to address mental health crises more effectively. The initiative is expected to improve outcomes for residents while easing the burden on emergency services.