Yuma police and firefighter mental health unit helps locals in crisis

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Yuma Police and Fire Departments are collaborating with mental health agencies to support locals in crisis.

YPD and YFD created a mental health co-responder unit this year to get resources to community members in crisis.

Officers presented the program to the community Tuesday at the Yuma County Anti Drug Coalition meeting to partner with local mental health agencies on how to offer support.

"Basically we go into the community and people that are having mental health disabilities, we try to get them resources, so that they can get the help that they need and live productive lives," said Sgt. Raul Fiveash with YPD.

The unit includes two police officers trained with mental health resources. They plan to add a YFD Paramedic at the beginning of next month.