Salinas approves a pilot for a mobile clinic to reach unhoused people where they are.

Emergency calls generate a reaction from first responders wherever you are and whether or not you have a roof over your head. Every month, Salinas police and fire departments respond to about 1,200 calls to aid unhoused individuals.

In an effort to get the response that is needed and to minimize that number of calls, on Tuesday, Dec. 5, the Salinas City Council voted 6-0 to approve a mobile crisis services pilot program. A mobile crisis unit will respond to calls to provide services like risk assessments and follow up afterward, rather than generating a police or fire call when unnecessary.

“The pilot program aims to improve community wellness, reduce the need for restrictive services, and provide crisis intervention services,” according to a report from Salinas Fire Chief Sam Klemek to City Council.

Council approved a two-year agreement for up to $390,000 with the County of Monterey, which will manage nonprofit Sierra Mental Wellness Group, the contractor operating the mobile unit, starting on Dec. 31.

The contract will be in effect for two years, through 2025. Two full-time staff will operate the unit with days and hours of operation expected to vary based on community need. The team will provide face-to-face assessments, a follow-up in the first three days, and referrals to relevant service organizations.

Since 2015, the County has offered mobile crisis services and is working to expand them. A new state mandate means counties must provide mobile crisis intervention services for Medi-Cal beneficiaries by Dec. 31.

The County-Salinas partnership will provide the first unit serving the city.