TULSA, Okla. — Tulsa’s Alternative Response Team, a key initiative launched by the Tulsa Fire Department in 2023, has been awarded a $618,000 extension to sustain its critical services.
The Alternative Response Team was established to address mental health crises and reduce the number of individuals in distress. In 2023 alone, the team responded to 439 911 calls, including incidents involving drug overdoses and other mental and physical health emergencies.
Tulsa Fire Department officials view the extension as crucial for continuing the program’s success over the coming years. Travis Boggs, a resident of downtown Tulsa, expressed support for the initiative, noting its importance in supplementing emergency medical services without diverting resources. “Any assistance that can be provided without pulling away from emergency medical services and the fire department seems like a worthy cause,” Boggs remarked.
The funding, sourced from the Walgreens Opioid Settlement Fund, will be used for necessary supplies and to ensure ongoing follow-ups with individuals in need. Emma Stafford, another downtown resident, emphasized the significance of comprehensive support. “Sometimes people only help them to a certain point, and they need it followed through to the end for sure,” Stafford said.
The extension is also expected to yield cost savings for taxpayers. EMS Director Justin Lemery highlighted the financial benefits, noting, “This unit here will save taxpayer dollars in many ways, from the fuel on a fire truck to firefighters responding to a scene.” Additionally, the funding will enable the fire department to gather data to enhance 911 response times.
Stafford expressed satisfaction with the allocation of funds, stating, “Hey, if it can go to the people in this community, that’s what’s important to me.”
Looking ahead, the Tulsa Fire Department plans to extend similar secondary response programs to other areas of the state.
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