The city of Salem has launched the REACH Team, a six-month pilot program aimed at addressing behavioral health crises, homelessness, and substance use. This initiative is a collaboration between the Salem Fire Department and Marion County Health and Human Services.
Local Efforts to Address Complex Issues
The REACH Team, which stands for Rapid Engagement, Assessment, and Community Health, consists of a paramedic, an EMT, and a mental health specialist. The city allocated $200,000 to kickstart the program, with Marion County contributing an additional $130,868 through the end of 2026.
Reporter Madeleine Moore from Salem Reporter participated in ride-alongs with the REACH Team to gain firsthand insight into their operations. Her experiences highlighted the team’s dedication to helping individuals who have often been overlooked by traditional systems such as healthcare and emergency response.
Building Trust and Providing Care
During her time with the team, Moore observed their efforts to build long-term relationships with individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges. The team focuses on delivering compassionate care, often revisiting individuals multiple times to offer assistance and support.
One notable interaction involved a woman the team had visited around 15 times. Despite the challenges, the team remained hopeful and committed to providing the necessary support to encourage her to accept help.
Challenges and Community Impact
The work of the REACH Team is not without its challenges. Local tensions regarding homelessness solutions remain high, with differing opinions on how to address the issue. Business leaders call for swift action to improve livability, while service providers advocate for addressing root causes with empathy.
Despite these challenges, the REACH Team continues to focus on their mission to bridge gaps between healthcare, law enforcement, and behavioral health services, providing essential care to those in need.
Original reporting: Salem Reporter — read the source article.
