As someone personally affected by the current state of the CAHOOTS program (Crisis Assistance Helping Out On The Streets), I am petitioning for an increase in funding and resources necessary to expand the program. Currently, there is only one van servicing the whole city, a capacity which is sorely lacking for the needs of our community.

CAHOOTS is a crucial mobile crisis intervention program that provides on-the-spot crisis intervention and medical aid, primarily serving individuals struggling with homelessness, mental health disorders, and substance abuse. It offers a more humane, less confrontational alternative to traditional law enforcement - a critical model in creating a more compassionate city. However, with just one van for the entire city, the outreach is severely limited.

Considering that, the Eugene Police Department in Oregon reported that CAHOOTS workers handled 17% of the total 133,000 calls in 2017, action must be taken to increase the capacity of this imperative program.

By providing more funds, we can acquire additional vans and hire more staff, thereby broadening the reach and impact of this life-saving program. Ultimately, we aim to ensure that everyone in our city who needs help has access to it. We request city officials and other stakeholders to seriously consider this pressing matter. Please sign this petition to increase funding for the CAHOOTS program.