Shaker Heights, MetroHealth collaboration will send social workers on 911 calls to connect mentally ill with help

Shaker Hts FD and MetroHealth join forces

Shaker Heights Police Chief Jeff DeMuth, MetroHealth Dr. Julia Bruner and Shaker Heights Fire Chief Patrick F. Sweeney talk about the partnership in which MetroHealth will supply the Shaker police and fire departments with a social worker who will help with mental health-related calls. The goal is to keep people having behavioral issues out of the emergency room and jails. David Petkiewicz, cleveland.comDavid Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio — When a kitchen catches fire or a car is stolen, police and paramedics know how to help.

First responders are less well equipped to offer permanent solutions when someone threatens suicide or passes out from binge drinking.

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