COLUMBUS – Officers with the Columbus Police Department’s Crisis Intervention Team have been delivering “Compassion Kits” to homeless individuals in the community during this hot weather.
On Tuesday, three members of the team, Officer Cody Wooten, Officer Jackie Recarte, and Officer Zach Romero, were out delivering kits containing hygiene products, water, Gatorade, snacks, and other items.
The kits were put together by volunteers working with the Foundation for Law Enforcement Chaplaincy, local churches, civic organizations, and individual donors.
The officers also provided information about services and resources available in the community including ASAP Hub, Turning Point, Centerstone’s Recovery Engagement Center, and veteran’s resources.
Crisis Intervention Team members received training that equips law enforcement officers to engage with residents who have mental wellness issues or specific barriers such as homelessness.
The police department continues to expand the number of officers who receive the training.
In November, there will be a joint crisis intervention training between the department and the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department.
