In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Abington Police Department is proud to announce the launch of its “Community Partners That Care” program, a new initiative designed to strengthen the way information, support, and resources are provided to individuals and families during some of life’s most difficult moments.
At the heart of the program is a newly developed Community Resource Guide, created to assist those navigating mental health emergencies, substance use crises, suicide-related concerns, sudden loss, and the important follow-up steps that often occur after a n initial emergency response.
The goal of the initiative is to ensure that individuals and families have access to compassionate support, clear information, and meaningful connections to services when they are needed most. Moving forward, department officers will be equipped with these guides and will be able to leave them with individuals and families during critical incidents.
This initiative also builds upon the Abington Police Department’s ongoing investment in behavioral health response and community-based care, including the Community Care Clinician Program and the department's partnership with Community Counseling of Bristol County (CCBC), which together continue to enhance coordinated response and provide clinical support during mental health-related calls for service.
The timing of this rollout during Mental Health Awareness Month reflects the department’s continued commitment to recognizing the importance of mental health, reducing stigma, and strengthening community support systems. Mental health challenges affect individuals and families across all walks of life, and access to timely, understandable resources can make a meaningful difference during moments of crisis and recovery.
Deputy Chief Jeff Postell and the department emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating:
“The Community Partners That Care program is about ensuring that when our officers respond to some of the most difficult moments in people’s lives, they are able to provide not only immediate assistance, but also meaningful follow-up support. Often times during these critical incidents where there has been a loss of life, families are facing a hectic and often times emotional scene, where information being provided is not being retained. These guides will leave a tangible document for families to review and open in the hours, days, and weeks ahead that can provide them with guidance, information, resources, and the sense of caring about them.”
The “Community Partners That Care” program reflects the Abington Police Department’s continued commitment to compassionate service and community partnership. By providing a lasting, accessible resource, the department aims to help bridge the gap between crisis response and ongoing care, ensuring that support does not end when the initial call for service concludes.
The Community Resource Guide is now available to the public in the lobby of the Abington Police Department and online at Abington Police Department.
Additional information about the program and available resources will be shared with the community as the initiative continues to roll out.