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With funding from the MI Department of Health and Human Services, Dial Help has launched a new program for juvenile justice youth in Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, and Ontonagon Counties.
The Juvenile Justice Response Team (JRT) provides face-to-face crisis intervention to youth age 10 to 21 who have had a Petition filed under the Probate Code.
The goal of this program is to interrupt the school-to-prison pipeline by providing safety and support to at-risk youth.
“We want to give youth in the juvenile justice system the support they need to get on a better path in this critical period prior to adulthood,” said Rebecca Crane, Dial Help Executive Director. “So often, what is labeled as ‘delinquent behavior’ is really a manifestation of trauma, neglect, or crisis. We hope to address this with short-term and on-going services.”
Dial Help worked closely with local law enforcement and court officials to develop a referral system for this program.
Other community partners include Copper Country Mental Health, Communities That Care, and various school faculty including the truancy officer.
Juvenile justice youth and their families can also request JRT services by contacting Dial Help directly at 482-HELP (906-482-4357).
