Lexington, KY — For the first time, the city has hired a mental health specialist to assist first responders during emergency situations, particularly focusing on mental health-related 9-1-1 calls. This initiative aims to address the approximately 3,000 mental health-related calls the city receives annually, a significant need that has previously gone unmet.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Mayor Linda Gorton emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “There are many mental health issues, many people in crisis. This grant we received to put a mental health specialist on the team is huge for our community.”
The city’s new Mobile Crisis Responder, Chris Perrine, holds a master’s degree in mental health counseling and is tasked with providing support to police and fire personnel during these distressing situations. “Someone like a mental health professional without a badge or without a uniform to hear someone out,” Perrine explained, reflecting on his role in the community.
Funding for this position comes from an $850,000 grant provided by the governor’s office through federal Medicaid Services. The grant is designated for establishing a crisis response team over the next three years. After that period, Mayor Gorton indicated that funding would be pursued through city resources, as she believes the program will continue to be needed.
Perrine, who relocated from California for this position, is expected to enhance the support provided to first responders. His responsibilities will extend beyond immediate crisis management. “To cut recidivism rates, link clients with resources, and identify needs is what I’m focused on,” he stated.
The Lexington police and fire departments collaborated in drafting the grant application, expressing satisfaction with this additional resource. Assistant Chief of Police Brian Maynard noted that deploying a mental health professional will help keep individuals with mental illness out of jail and lead them on a path to recovery.
With programs like One Lexington already operational in combating crime rates, Mayor Gorton views this initiative as another step towards a safer community. “It’s one thing to recognize the problem, but it’s another to create a plan to get farther along the path. We’re excited; it’s a big deal,” she concluded.
