Officials in East Texas, including county sheriffs and Judge Neal Franklin, are collaborating with the Andrews Center in Tyler to handle the mental health crisis in the region.
Sheriff Botie Hillhouse from Henderson County mentioned that Texas jails have unfortunately become the main mental health providers in the state, which is a problem. He stated that a significant portion of inmates in his jail are struggling with mental health issues.
The Andrews Center is teaming up with local law enforcement, mental health organizations, and elected officials across East Texas to work on the “Sequential Intercept Mapping” model, also known as SIM Initiative.
This model assesses the needs of the community, focusing on mental health services due to the lack of such services in Smith County, as explained by Keisha Morris, the Chief SIM officer.
Participants in this model include commissioners, judges, attorneys, justice of the peace officials, social workers, and local hospital staff. The model primarily aims to help non-violent and minor offenders.
Sheriff Larry Smith of Smith County emphasized the benefits of this approach for inmates, as it can help them avoid becoming part of the criminal justice system.
The main objective is to provide proper care to individuals to prevent them from repeatedly entering the system. The goal is to ensure that people receive care promptly and aren’t left waiting for intervention.
In Smith County, the four main concerns are diverting people from jail, identifying mental illness early in criminal proceedings, collaborating with mental health agencies and law enforcement, and securing funding for inpatient care.
The Andrews Center is seeking state funding to establish a diversion center and provide treatment across the five counties they serve. This initiative, known as the “Rider 52 Diversion and Crisis Stabilization” grant, would allow individuals in crisis to receive immediate help and avoid criminal charges.
County leaders hope that this approach will have a positive impact on the increasing homeless population in East Texas. Additionally, the model will prioritize assistance for veterans who have served the country.