Crime & Safety

Novato Residents Can Directly Seek Help For Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Homelessness

The City of Novato welcomed its first team dedicated to addressing mental health with a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday.

The Novato team will be made up of first responders who are supposed to offer a compassionate approach to crisis prevention, intervention, and response.
The Novato team will be made up of first responders who are supposed to offer a compassionate approach to crisis prevention, intervention, and response. (Lauren Grant/ City of Novato)

NOVATO, CA β€” Novato residents experiencing mental health challenges, issues with substance abuse, or problems with the homeless now have an alternative to calling the police.

The SAFE team operates from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To reach the SAFE team directly, call 415-899-7000.

SAFE stands for Specialized Assistance for Everyone.

Find out what's happening in Novatofor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The City of Novato's team of first responders is aimed at providing assistance to those experiencing mental health challenges and was welcomed to the city with a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday, according to a press release.

The Novato team will be made up of first responders who will address mental health crises, addiction, and homelessness. They will also assist in conflict resolution, substance abuse counseling, and welfare checks.

Find out what's happening in Novatofor free with the latest updates from Patch.

In November 2024, the Novato City Council approved a partnership with the Petaluma People Service Center to bring the SAFE Program to Novato as part of a five-year pilot program.

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