Community Crisis Responders

A 9-1-1 dispatcher and two CARE community crisis responders viewing multiple computer monitors on the desk of a Seattle 9-1-1 dispatcher    Two CARE community crisis responder employees driving south on Third Avenue in Seattle in a community crisis responder vehicle.

The CARE Department employs 32 Community Crisis Responders (CCRs), highly trained behavioral health professionals who respond to 911 calls which do not require an armed police officer. CCRs conduct welfare checks, de-escalate community members who are experiencing a crisis, and connect folks to resources like shelter, treatment, transportation, food, water, and clothing.

The CCRs operate from 12:00-10:00 PM daily, citywide, and are dispatched either through the CARE Department's 911 Communications Center or by Seattle Police Department patrol officers.

Members of the public may call 911 or the City's non-emergency line (206-625-5011) in order to request the CCRs. Call-takers will determine the appropriate response based on the scenario, referring to the primary dispatch qualifications for CCRs which are outlined in Appendix I of the City's 2025 agreement with the Seattle Police Officers Guild.

If you have questions or would like to request a ridealong, email CARE_info@seattle.gov.

Community Assisted Response and Engagement (CARE)

Chief Amy Barden
Mailing Address: PO Box 94607, Seattle, WA, 98124-6907
Phone: (206) 625-5011 (For non-emergencies)
SCD_CAREChief@seattle.gov
Contact CARE

Learn about CARE, Seattle’s 911 Center that provides emergency and non-emergency responses.