This tax season, join us as we work to make a difference in our communities by bridging the gap between mental health and public safety through the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT).

CIT programs bring law enforcement, mental health providers, family voices and communities together to improve crisis outcomes through training, collaboration, and education. They enhance safety, reduce arrests of individuals with mental illness, and increase access to treatment and recovery resources.

Too often, we hear stories of law enforcement responding to mental health crisis calls without proper training, experience, or education. While NAMI California envisions a future where prevention is prioritized and crises are rare, today, we are still navigating the harsh realities of a system under strain, and in turn, communities are grappling with confusion that puts lives at risk. Mental health crises continue to unfold in our homes, on our streets, in silence and in desperation. The question we face is not if these crises will occur, but whether we, first responders, and crisis teams are prepared to meet them with the urgency, coordination, and compassion they require.

When families are in need during a mental health crisis, many turn to law enforcement for support. NAMI California works with our Affiliates throughout the state to ensure these partnerships are effective through CIT programs. The programs create opportunities for law enforcement to learn more about how to safely support those experiencing a mental health crisis.

Last year, NAMI California and NAMI Affiliates reached over 500 individuals and law enforcement personnel through presentations and trainings on mental health crisis support. Immediately, counties saw a difference in how mental health crises were approached by law enforcement.

“At its core, the CIT fosters a shift in mindset.  The program focuses on creating a safe environment for both first responders and individuals in crisis. CIT trained first responders are empowered to utilize their critical thinking skills and challenge the traditional siloed response to crisis calls. CIT builds the foundation for a response that encourages collaboration, stabilization, and long-term support. 

I believe the success of CIT is demonstrated daily in our communities when our first responders intentionally create an environment where they can safely invest more time and resources into individuals who may have otherwise been overlooked.” 
– Deputy Ballard, San Mateo County

Help us continue to support and expand this critical work by donating to the Mental Health Crisis Prevention Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund. When filing your state income taxes this year, simply check the box on line 445 on form 540 that reads “Mental Health Crisis Prevention Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund” and donate to the dollar amount of your choice. 

Thank you for giving a little of what you get back this year.

Your support is much appreciated. You can learn more at namica.org/tax-fund.

Thank you,
Jessica Wilson (Cruz)
CEO, NAMI California