Item Description:
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JPA Agmt A2312128 with the City of Golden Valley, to continue services of the Hennepin County Embedded Social Worker Program, 01/01/24-12/31/25
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that Joint Powers Agreement A2312128 with the City of Golden Valley, 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, 2024 to December 31, 2025 be approved; and that the Chair of the Board be authorized to sign the amended Joint Powers Agreements on behalf of the County.
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Background:
In 2019, six suburban cities partnered with Hennepin County's Behavioral Health Area to launch a new kind of response to mental health-related calls by embedding social workers in their police departments. This systematic and layered approach allows for a tailored assessment and response for residents who engage law enforcement because of mental health and substance use needs. As of 2023, all police departments in Hennepin County had access to an embedded social worker. These programs leverage grants, billing, property taxes, and a cost share with police departments to finance the costs.
Through the program, Embedded Social Workers respond to referrals and offer support, assessments, and connections to community services. The goal of the program is to reduce criminal justice system involvement and create timely access to social services. The integration of social workers into emergency response reduces unnecessary law enforcement contacts and raises quality of life for individuals through ongoing stability in their community. In 2023 we have received referrals for nearly 7,000 residents across 31 police departments that support 42 cities.
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 t...
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