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Novato Welcomes SAFE Team

Post Date:04/01/2025 11:30 AM

As part of Novato’s ongoing commitment to enhancing access to essential resources and support services for those in need, the City is proud to announce that the SAFE (Specialized Assistance for Everyone) Team is now serving our community. This initiative aims to provide critical assistance to community members experiencing mental health challenges, substance abuse issues, and homelessness.

In November 2024, the City Council approved a new partnership with Petaluma People Services Center (PPSC) to bring the SAFE Program to Novato. This mobile crisis response team, composed of civilian first responders, offers a compassionate and specialized approach to crisis response, prevention and intervention. The SAFE Team delivers comprehensive, trauma-informed services, including:

  • Emergency response: Addressing mental health crises, addiction, and homelessness.
  • Non-emergency support: Assisting individuals in need of conflict resolution, welfare checks, low-level medical aid, and substance abuse counseling.
  • Proactive outreach: Building connections with community members to provide early intervention before crises escalate.

The SAFE Team operates Tuesday - Saturday from 8am – 8pm and can be reached directly at 415.899.7000. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1. Emergency dispatchers will assess calls to determine the most appropriate response, whether from SAFE, police, fire, paramedics or a combination of services. This program is intended to benefit our community as a whole by keeping police officers, firefighters and paramedics available for appropriate emergencies, while continuing to support those in need of specialized response services.

“The City deeply values its partnership with Petaluma People Services Center and the SAFE Team,” said Mayor Tim O’Connor. “Their services complement existing programs provided to those in need, making a meaningful and lasting impact on our community. Through collaboration and innovation, Novato remains committed to fostering positive outcomes and enhanced quality of life for all who call Novato home.”

More information is available at novato.org/SAFE.

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