Pennsylvania’s effort to refine its response to crisis situations has taken a significant step forward with the introduction of a new initiative in Berks County. Announced by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Technical Assistance Center is aimed at bolstering the methods used by law enforcement and first responders when dealing with individuals in distress.
The CIT model is an interagency collaboration, which means local police, fire departments, correctional facilities, probation and parole officers, mental health workers, and community advocates all get a seat at the table. This approach is designed to provide a coordinated, more effective response—a plan that hinges on the hopes of de-escalation and prioritizing the safety of all involved. And as per the recent announcement, the Berks County initiative is now under a spotlight as a potential blueprint for the state.
"Crisis intervention programs and trainings have made a critical difference for individuals experiencing crisis, including here in Berks County," said Jackie Weaknecht, Director of PCCD's Office of Justice Programs, during the launch event. She emphasized that the intent is to "build a smarter, more compassionate response system," one that keeps individuals in crisis and their communities safe, as per Berks County.
The inception of the CIT Technical Assistance Center is a response to a growing need for refined interventions during emergencies, particularly involving mental health crises. Weaknecht pointed out that the initiative will ensure that county programs are "grounded in best practices," assuring that those on the front lines have the optimal tools and connections to spearhead change. A major step, indeed, in augmenting how Pennsylvanians’ needs are attended to during their most vulnerable moments.
