In moments of crisis, the right response can make all the difference. Some situations require a trained law enforcement officer. Other times, all that is needed is someone with a calm voice, a clipboard, and a readiness to listen. That’s the guiding principle behind Harris County’s Holistic Assistance Response Team (HART), which is transforming the way the County responds to crises, changing lives, and making communities safer.Now, this groundbreaking program getting a major expansion, which will allow it to reach even more residents in need across Harris County. On August 7, under the leadership of Commissioner Lesley Briones, Harris County Commissioners Court d 6 new positions to expand the Harris County Public Health’s (HCPH) unarmed, mobile crisis response team Harris County.HART consists of professionals trained in behavioral health and on-scene medical care who respond to diverted 911 calls that don’t require law enforcement. These calls can involve mental health crises, homelessness, welfare checks, or basic support needs. The benefits of this model are two-fold: a HART response prevents the unnecessary criminalization of residents who only need social service assistance and allows law enforcement to better allocate resources.
A critical role in public safety
Since launching in 2022, HART has responded to more than 20,000 calls and redirected hundreds from the jail system to mental health and welfare services.
Police play a critical role in public safety, but they can’t do it alone,” said Commissioner Briones, who championed the program. “I remain committed to HART, and I am energized by the opportunity to enact changes that will ensure the program meets its full potential.”
The new court action will fund 15 emergency medical technicians and crisis intervention specialists and one outreach worker. The expansion will support broader geographic coverage and lay the foundation for 24/7 service in the future.
The additional teams will allow HART to expand to all Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) patrol districts to respond to more non-violent calls and alleviate the burden on law enforcement and EMS partners,” said Lupe Washington, Director of Community Health and Violence Prevention Services for HCPH.
A national example
HART’s impact is already evident — the highest number in six months. s to housing, transportation, and mental health services also reached record highs.
One of those calls came from a resident experiencing a family disturbance. The HART team was able to de-escalate, conduct a needs assessment, provide mental health services, and assist the resident with employment. This is one of the many cases that has shown the success of HART.
person get treatment, and it prevents further exacerbation of our overcrowded jail and the backlog in our courts,” said Commissioner Briones. “It really is a win-win.”
As Harris County continues to invest in smarter crisis response, HART is not just expanding — it’s evolving into a national example for compassionate, community-based public safety.
“HART’s model will positively influence other jurisdictions and show the necessity for our holistic approach to providing care,” said Washington. “Harris County’s HART Fourth Response Model is unique and is continuously being called upon by the Harvard Kennedy Government Performance Lab to use as an example for other jurisdictions.”
How to get in contact with HART
The residents of unincorporated Harris County service areas can request HART by calling 911 and asking for HART or by calling the Harris County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number (713) 221-6000 and requesting a HART unit. Community members may also call the Community Health and Violence Prevention Services number (713) 274-4877 for non-emergency matters and request to speak with a HART staff member. If a resident is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, they should call 911.