On Aug. 23, Travis County opened a short-term, 24-hour respite facility for youth in Central Texas. The Youth Crisis Respite Program provides a safe and supportive environment for young people ages 13-17 in Travis County who are experiencing a crisis or need a break from life’s stressors, explained Marlene Buchanan, LPC, director of Systems of Care for Integral Health, … [Read more...] about Travis County Youth Crisis Respite Program
Jails
Travis County Crisis Care Jail Diversion Program
Pathway to Stability
Approximately 38 percent of the 2,400-plus inmates in the Travis County Jail have a serious mental health need (i.e., requiring medications), according to Travis County Judge Andy Brown. Of those 2,400, more than two thirds of the individuals have a substance use disorder, Brown estimated. Determined to lower these statistics, Travis County partnered with local stakeholders … [Read more...] about Travis County Crisis Care Jail Diversion Program
Texas Commission on Jail Standards Update
For all practical purposes, it was a relatively quiet legislative session when it comes to county jails, and I am glad. No bills were passed that directly impact how your jail operates; however, two bills could potentially assist your operations. The first one, Senate Bill 22, can assist counties with a population of 300,000 or less with salaries for jailers. As … [Read more...] about Texas Commission on Jail Standards Update
How Comal County Sheriff’s Office Increased Efficiencies in Latest Renovation
Sponsored Content
The recently completed renovation for the Comal County Sheriff’s Office is an example of repurposing existing facilities to maximize space and efficiency. The nearly 40-year-old office was built in 1985 and had exhausted the life and capacity of its original systems and the flexibility to adapt to changes in practice for this growing county. With rising populations, increased … [Read more...] about How Comal County Sheriff’s Office Increased Efficiencies in Latest Renovation
In Their Shoes
Simulation Program Navigates Post-Incarceration Obstacles
“People should always be treated with dignity and respect. While we cannot ignore or forget the past, we also don’t have to let the past define us or others.” Cass County Judge Travis Ransom In April, I had the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone. I participated in a “Prison Reentry Simulation” which replicates the challenges and struggles faced by thousands of … [Read more...] about In Their Shoes