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 — a five-year alternative response pilot program. This mobile crisis response team, composed of civilian first responders, offers a compassionate and specialized approach to crisis response, prevention and intervention.

How Does It Work?

Through the SAFE program, calls for service are responded to by a team of civilian Crisis Counselors and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) with the tools, resources, and knowledge to address the unique needs of community members more effectively. 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.

In partnering with PPSC, the City is able to leverage existing behavioral health programs and ensure a seamless referral to an established continuum of care.

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. 

How Can I Reach the SAFE Team?

The SAFE Team operates Tuesday - Saturday from 8am – 8pm: 

• In an emergency, 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. 
• Call 415.899.7000 - Reach the SAFE Team directly.