PRESS RELEASE: New 911-988-211 Diversion Partnership
Valley Communications Center and Crisis Connections partner to better serve those in crisis; 911-988-211 Services now under one roof in South King County.
Valley Communications Center (Valley Com 911) and Crisis Connections are thrilled to announce the launch of a first-of-its-kind service that brings mental health and social services support together with 911 emergency response. Under a new Diversion Program, these services will be able to work seamlessly to provide critical attention to those most vulnerable. It means faster, better help for people in South King County facing emergencies, mental health challenges, or in need of support, including navigating basic needs.
About the Program:
This innovative program aims to ensure individuals in crisis or those needing immediate assistance with mental health or essential services receive prompt and appropriate support. When someone in crisis calls 911, dispatchers can immediately direct them to mental health professionals (988) or social service information specialists (211) in the same room. This initiative aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the response to emergencies, mental health crises, and requests for community assistance.
Key Benefits:
- Better and Appropriate Response: Calls are quickly directed to the appropriate service, whether it's fire, medical, or police emergency response, mental health counseling, or access to community resources.
- Comprehensive Support: The initiative bridges the gap between emergency services and community support, ensuring individuals receive holistic care tailored to their specific needs.
- Streamlined Services: The co-location of 911, 988, and 211 operations facilitates better communication and coordination among service providers, leading to improved outcomes for community members and frees up emergency services to focus on the most urgent needs.
- Expanded Community Trust: This collaboration aims to build safety and trust with marginalized populations accessing emergency services and mental health support.
Michelle McDaniel, CEO of Crisis Connections: "Our partnership with Valley Com 911 marks a significant advancement in community support, ensuring individuals experiencing a crisis receive appropriate, immediate, and compassionate care. We believe this program will serve as a model, illustrating the profound impact of partnership and innovation to serve all community members so that the right help is always within reach."
Vonnie Mayer, Executive Director of Valley Comm 911: "This collaboration with Crisis Connections enhances our emergency response capabilities, creating a more efficient and integrated system for our community. It's a proud moment for us, showcasing our dedication to innovation and the safety and well-being of South King County residents."
Valley Communications Center serves:
Algona Police
Auburn Police
Black Diamond Police
Des Moines Police
Federal Way Police
Kent Police
Pacific Police
Renton Police
Tukwila Police
Enumclaw Fire
King County International Airport ARFF
KCFD #2/Burien/Normandy Park Fire
KCFD #20/Skyway Fire
KCFPD #47/Kangley-Palmer Fire
Mountain View Fire & Rescue
North Highline Fire
Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority
Renton Regional Fire Authority
South King Fire & Rescue
Tukwila Fire
Valley Regional Fire Authority
Vashon Island Fire & Rescue
King County Medic One
Contact:
Crisis Connections
Sergey Smirnov
Sr Director of Advancement and Community Engagement
206-310-4600
ssmirnov@crisisconnections.org
ABOUT VALLEY COMMUNICATIONS CENTER - 911
Located in Kent, Washington, Valley Communications Center is the Regional 911 Center that provides emergency communications services to communities of South King County, including Auburn, Kent, Renton, Tukwila, and Federal Way. Valley Com is responsible for answering emergency 911 calls and dispatching resources such as police officers, firefighters, and paramedics to citizens requiring assistance. Our service area spans from Seattle’s southern border to a few blocks south of the Pierce County line and from Vashon Island to the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range. https://www.valleycom.org
ABOUT CRISIS CONNECTIONS – 988, 211, AND OTHER PROGRAMS
Since 1964, Crisis Connections has been a trusted nonprofit serving Seattle, King County, and Washington State. Our mission is to foster resilience and well-being for all by connecting people to accessible and compassionate support. More than 500,000 people turn to us each year for help when they need it most. Our core helplines include 988 and 211 in King County, 24-hour Crisis Lines in 8 counties, Teen Link and Warm Line for peer support, the WA Recovery Help Line, plus support after suicide programs.