Image courtesy CKMHC

Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC) is marking two years of its Co-Responder Program during National Co-Responder and Crisis Responder Week, September 14–20, 2025. The week recognizes the vital work of co-responders and crisis responders in Salina, who provide immediate support to people experiencing a behavioral health crisis while helping strengthen community safety.

Mental health and substance use challenges often lead to homelessness, incarceration, or emergency room visits—outcomes that are costly and disruptive compared to early intervention and access to care. National data show one in four people with mental illness have been arrested, underscoring the need for compassionate crisis response and stronger connections to services.

Launched in September 2023, the Co-Responder Program is a partnership between CKMHC, the Salina Police Department, Saline County Sheriff’s Office, and Salina Fire Department, with support from American Rescue Plan Act funding. Behavioral health professionals respond alongside law enforcement to provide care, de-escalation, and service referrals.

In two years, the program has reached more than 1,000 people, expanded to include a second co-responder, and trained first responders through Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) instruction.

For immediate crises, call 911 and request a CIT-trained officer or co-responder. For ongoing support, contact CKMHC at 785-823-6322 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.