Item Description:
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JPA A2412461 with the City of Robbinsdale and the Three Rivers Park District to continue services of the Hennepin County Embedded Social Worker Program, 01/01/25-12/31/25
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that Joint Power Agreement A2412461 with the City of Robbinsdale and the Three Rivers Park District, to enhance the coordination between local police departments and the Human Services and Public Health Department (HSPHD) associated with the Embedded Social Worker Program for the period of January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025 be approved; and that the Chair of the Board be authorized to sign the Joint Powers Agreements on behalf of the County
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Background:
In 2019, six suburban cities (Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Hopkins, Minnetonka, Plymouth and St. Louis Park) partnered with Hennepin County’s Behavioral Health Area to launch a new kind of response to mental health-related calls in the field: embedding social workers in their police departments. This systematic and layered approach allows for a tailored assessment and response for people calling because of mental health and substance use issues. The Department requests approval for the Joint Power Agreement to continue the Police Embedded Social Workers in the City of Robbinsdale and the Three Rivers Park District.
Through the program, Embedded Social Workers receive referrals from the municipal police departments and dispatch offices regarding individuals who appear to have mental health, substance use, or other needs. Embedded Social Workers will offer support, assessments, and connections to community services. The goal of the program is to reduce unnecessary law enforcement contacts, justice involvement and improve the quality of life for individuals through ongoing stability in their community. In 2023, the Embedded Social Worker program received over 8,400 referrals and engaged more than 5,600 people across 31 police departments and 45 municipalities. While a significant number of people were referred to mental health supports, many needed help across a wide range of human services like housing and economic support. As an example of their effectiveness, Embedded Social Workers produced an 80% reduction in calls among the top 25 callers in Brooklyn Park, an early adopter of the Embedded Social Worker Program.
This request supports the county’s identified priorities and goals for the disparity reduction Health domain by focusing on achieving health equity where every person feels they have the opportunity to attain their highest health potential, and no one is disadvantaged from achieving this potential because of social position or other socially determined circumstances.
recommendation
Recommendation from County Administrator: Recommend Approval