A new, three-person team created to help Salem residents experiencing mental health crises and substance use disorders began work on Jan. 20.
The city of Salem and Marion County came together to form the Rapid Engagement, Assessment and Community Health team, also known as REACH. The program is part of a six-month pilot project and will continue if it sees success.
The team is composed of an EMT, paramedic and mental health associate. It will operate 40 hours per week during peak demand hours and will be jointly administered by the Salem Fire Department and Marion County Health and Human Services…