MORE Program: Enhancing Mental Health Support within the Criminal Justice System

The Mobile Outreach Response and Engagement (MORE) Program, initiated by the Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board of Erie County, Ohio, aims to strengthen collaboration between mental health providers and the criminal justice system. Spanning Erie County's 251.3 square miles with a population of 75,622, the program addresses the disproportionate involvement of individuals with mental health disorders (MHDs) or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders (MHSUDs) in the criminal justice system.

The MORE Program's design stems from recognizing gaps in existing services, such as overcrowding in the Erie County Jail and delays in accessing mental health care. By establishing specialized caseloads, the program aims to provide targeted interventions for individuals with frequent criminal justice involvement and severe mental illness or substance use disorders.

Under the leadership of experienced professionals, the MORE Program leverages the expertise of collaborative partners, including the Erie County Sheriff's Office and Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services. With a focus on systematic data collection, the program tracks performance metrics to evaluate effectiveness and guide decision-making. By supplementing existing resources with federal support, the program seeks to address the scale and complexity of the issue effectively. There are no planned conference activities for the recommended award.