Sedgwick County looks to San Antonio for mental health solutions


Since the early 2000s, when its overcrowded jail led to a decision to jail fewer people instead of adding more cells, Bexar County, Texas, has provided comprehensive help to people likely to end up jailed if social and health services are lacking: people experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance abuse. A crisis center gives police and residents a place to bring people needing help other than an emergency room or jail. The Haven for Hope is a campus offering an array of services and shelter. Homelessness and the jail population are both way down.

Related Stories