LA Metro Takes Holistic Approach to Care-Centered Programs

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro) has launched a new division to focus on care-centered public safety programs. As reported in LA Metro’s The Source, the Care-Based Services Division will take a “holistic approach to public safety that prioritizes safety, dignity, and the right response for every situation.” 

Falling under the agency’s Department of Public Safety, complementary programs—such as Metro Ambassadors, Homeless Outreach Management and Engagement, and Community Intervention Specialists—will be brought together to address rider safety and assist individuals in need. Metro Ambassadors focus on customer support, wayfinding, and helping riders feel safe. Homeless Outreach Management and Engagement and Community Intervention Specialists respond to situations involving mental health crises or vulnerable individuals, focusing on de-escalation and connection to appropriate services. 

The Care-Based Services Division plans to build new crisis response teams to respond to behavioral health-related incidents using clinicians, peer specialists, and, when appropriate, trained Department of Public Safety officers. The goal is to connect individuals experiencing crises to services while ensuring law enforcement is free to focus on crime prevention and other emergency response. 

Given the reliance on public transit facilities by people dealing with homelessness and others who seek shelter or a safe space, APTA provides resources for transit agencies. These include a podcast and presentations from conferences to share best practices.