Effective April 1st, all of City Council District 1 has access to unarmed crisis response teams, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Now, when you dial 911, trained response teams can be deployed as an alternative to law enforcement to respond to non-urgent incidents involving people experiencing homelessness. These teams offer trauma-informed care and support for people in crisis, and are equipped with experienced mental health professionals and outreach teams for follow up engagement and case management.
More About the Teams
- Alcott Center: Services communities within Rampart, Central LAPD Divisions, such as Angelino Heights, Chinatown, Echo Park, Elysian Park, Koreatown, MacArthur Park, Pico Union, and Westlake
- Urban Alchemy: Serves communities within Northeast, Hollenbeck, and Southwest LAPD Divisions, such as Cypress Park, Glassell Park, Highland Park, Lincoln Heights, Montecito Heights, Mount Washington, and University Park
These unarmed crisis response teams are made possible by two programs offered by the City: the Crisis and Incident Response through Community-led Engagement (CIRCLE) and the Unarmed Model of Crisis Response (UMCR), which also services non-homeless populations. Some examples of incidents the teams respond to include noise disturbances, individuals with lack of clothing, and/or people appearing as if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The teams can be requested by calling 877-ASK-LAPD or 911 and the operator will interview you to determine if the incident is eligible for dispatch of unarmed responders.