Unique partnership provides mobile crisis support to people in need in southern Oregon 

Calls are made to Jackson County’s mental health crisis line 24 hours a day. When an issue can’t be resolved over the phone, a unique partnership helps provide comprehensive, in-person support to people in need. 

The county’s mental health department partners with Mercy Flights to respond to community members in crisis, with representatives from each organization using their expertise to provide both emotional and physical support.

The mobile crisis response team is an alternative to involving law enforcement officers. The response is meant to be discreet, with no lights or sirens, and draw less attention to the scene and the individual in crisis. 

“We’re offering support that is more trauma-informed and less intrusive, we hope, to their lives,” said Rick Rawlins, manager of crisis and outpatient services for Jackson County Mental Health. 

The partnership launched in September 2022. A community benefit investment from Providence Oregon, along with United Way, has allowed for additional staff and equipment to expand the team’s reach into the community. 

“I’m so excited to see how this grows and addresses our community needs,” said Sabrina Ballew, Mercy Flights mobile and integrated health care manager.