ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Local police and first responders in Rockford now have a new resource to assist individuals with drug or mental health issues through the Northwest Illinois Deflection Initiative.
The initiative was launched at a kick-off event held at the Nordlof Center in downtown Rockford on Tuesday. It aims to connect those in need with essential services such as treatment, housing, and food.
Koren VanderWeele from the TASC Center for Health & Justice emphasized the importance of approaching individuals with empathy and understanding, noting that many did not choose their current lifestyle and may have underlying issues…