The Madison Community Alternative Response Emergency Services (CARES) program has reached its 10,000th call for service as of Tuesday, July 22, 2025. This milestone highlights the growing role CARES plays in responding to behavioral health emergencies in the community.
CARES focuses on non-violent behavioral health incidents that might otherwise be handled by law enforcement or emergency medical services. The response teams are made up of a Madison Fire Department Community Paramedic and a Journey Mental Health Crisis Worker. Team members have received training in crisis intervention, cultural competency, de-escalation, suicide prevention and risk assessment, trauma-informed care, and related areas.
Since it began operations in September 2021, CARES has been recognized for effectively connecting individuals with mental health resources and reducing unnecessary trips to emergency rooms and jails. The program’s growth includes expanded service hours and additional teams, leading to increased capacity and higher engagement from the public as awareness spreads.
In February 2025, CARES extended its services to Sun Prairie through a one-year pilot initiative. In that time, the program has responded to 38 calls within Sun Prairie.
Beyond answering 911 calls, CARES teams work within the community at resource centers, shelters, and mental health facilities. They also follow up with patients between active calls to help ensure ongoing access to needed services.
Currently, three CARES teams are available on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., while one team covers weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
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