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First CALL
The First CALL (Crisis Assistance and Local Linkage) Program is an alternative crisis response team serving Cleveland Heights, Shaker Heights, South Euclid, Richmond Heights and University Heights. The team includes behavioral health clinicians and peer support staff who engage with individuals experiencing mental health distress and substance use disorders.
To request support from First CALL, call 9-1-1. An operator will dispatch the most appropriate available response.
First CALL responds to any person in Cleveland Heights, Shaker Heights, South Euclid, Richmond Heights, and University Heights needing urgent help related to mental health distress, poverty, homelessness, substance misuse, resource needs and more.
First CALL provides crisis intervention, de-escalation, and resource connection for community members in need.
First CALL is dispatched through Chagrin Valley Dispatch 9-1-1 communication center. Operators will send the most appropriate available response. All calls are screened for safety and appropriateness.
First CALL team members may respond with police and/or fire departments depending on risk level or respond independently to low-risk calls where there are no significant safety concerns.
First CALL operates Monday-Friday between the hours of 10 am-6:30 pm. Outside program hours, applicable first responders will respond to the crisis and a referral will be made to the First CALL program for a team member to follow up during working hours.
First CALL operates and is dispatched to calls in the cities of Cleveland Heights, Shaker Heights, South Euclid, Richmond Heights, and University Heights. The First CALL program operates Monday-Friday, 10 am-6:30 pm.
First CALL is here to help in a crisis involving mental health and/or substance abuse disorder. This incldues connecting inviduals with area resources and services to help with recovery. Learn more about the agencies providing these resources/services using the links below:
- Alcohol, Drug, Addiction and Mental Health Services of Cuyahoga County
- United Way of Greater Cleveland
Background
The City of Shaker Heights first piloted First CALL, then the Mental Health Response Program, in 2022. It was expanded in 2024 to five cities with the support of Cuyahoga County and other partners. Learn more.
Fact Sheet
- First CALL Fact Sheet (PDF)
| Is someone in need of help right now? Call or text 911 for police, fire or medical emergencies. Need support? Know someone who is struggling or in crisis? Help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org |