Westchester County’s Department of Community Mental Health innovative efforts to address homelessness and mental health have been spotlighted in a newly released report by the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) Task Force on Homelessness and the Law. The report, approved at the NYSBA’s annual meeting in New York City, brings together insights from across the state to tackle legal barriers contributing to homelessness.
County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Westchester County is proud to see the Department of Community Mental Health recognized for their groundbreaking work in addressing the intersection of homelessness and mental health. Their dedication and innovative strategies are making a real difference in the lives of our residents, and this acknowledgment by the New York State Bar Association underscores the impact of their efforts.”
The comprehensive report identifies key issues statewide, from homelessness among veterans and children to unmet mental health needs and the intersection of homelessness with the criminal justice system. While outlining critical policy recommendations, the Task Force commended Westchester County for its leadership in three pivotal areas:
- Sequential Intercept Model Implementation: Westchester County’s adoption of this model helps divert individuals from the criminal justice system into behavioral health treatment. By providing alternatives to incarceration at every stage of the justice process, from pre-arrest to community reentry, the County is reducing barriers to stable housing for those with mental health needs.
- Compassionate Encampment Relocation in Port Chester: In collaboration with the NYS Thruway Authority and local community partners, Westchester County safely and humanely relocated a homeless encampment under a major highway bridge slated for maintenance. Launched in Spring 2024, this initiative prioritized connection and supportive relocation, setting a potential model for future efforts statewide.
- Project Alliance Mobile Crisis Response Teams: These specialized teams provide on-the-ground support during behavioral health crises, helping individuals remain safely in their homes and reducing unnecessary emergency room visits or encounters with law enforcement.
New York State Bar Association President Domenick Napoletano said: “Aiding the homeless means making sure that the most vulnerable people in our society can get the health care and mental health services they need. Our Task Force on Homelessness and the Law rigorously investigated the many actions that society – including government and the legal profession – can take to be sure that everyone has a safe place to live. I am happy that we are partnering with Westchester County to see that all our fine work is recognized.”
Department of Community Mental Health Deputy Commissioner Joseph A. Glazer, Esq. served on this Bar Association Task Force, and previously Co-chaired the Task Force on Mental Health and Trauma-Informed Representation for the Bar in 2022-23.
Glazer said: “I applaud the New York State Bar Association for continuing to highlight the issues, needs and laws connected to meeting the needs of some of New York’s most vulnerable people. It is important that such a distinguished and influential organization seeks to drive these discussions.”