County's Mobile Crisis Unit Presented NACo Achievement Award

The Chautauqua County Mobile Crisis Unit, which was created just over four years ago to address the critical shortage of mental health resources in the county, has received national recognition. During this week's County Legislature meeting in Mayville, the unit was presented with a National Association of Counties' 2024 Achievement Award. County Executive P.J. Wendel highlighted one instance where it sprung into action -- last October's blaze at the Colony Motel in West Ellicott...

P.J. Wendel: response to Colony Motel fire

Most had lost everything they owned in that fire. Lynn Graziano, Director of the Mobile Crisis Unit, accepted the award for the team.

The county's website states that the Mobile Crisis Unit uses "an innovative approach that ensures a seamless transition to long-term treatment and community resources, covering everything from emergency housing to substance use treatment." Officials say it's staffed by licensed clinicians and certified peer specialists, and provides immediate on-the-ground support, safety planning, and telehealth consultations with psychiatrists. They also run the county's Crisis Hotline. Last year alone, the unit responded to 424 calls, successfully managing 403 of them without resorting to hospitalization or police intervention.

Photo by Chautauqua County Government