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06/02/2025 2:29 pm

A man hugging another man with the Raleigh CARES logo overlaid on the photo

Raleigh CARES

Crisis Alternative Response for Empathy and Support

Updated: Jun 2, 2025

When a community member needs help, connection to the right resources is critical.  

Raleigh is moving forward with a more compassionate and comprehensive response system with the launch of Raleigh CARES.  

Raleigh CARES is the name chosen by the community. CARES stands for Crisis Alternative Response for Empathy and Support. Our mission is to connect the community to the resources and support that they need.

Raleigh CARES includes several key components designed to provide both immediate and long-term support. Details and progress on each are provided on the linked page: 

City Council Presentation

Watch the Raleigh CARES presentation to City Council on Nov. 19, 2024.

Helpful Links

Crisis Call Diversion Line
Care Navigation Team
ACORNS
Community Response Team

How It Works

Raleigh CARES is currently in its pilot phase and will have the following initial conditions:

  • Operating Hours: The Crisis Call Diversion Line and Care Navigation Unit are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Support Scope: These services are available to assist individuals in distress who do not pose a threat to themselves or others.

The primary way to access emergency services will remain through 911, with first responders including Raleigh Fire, Wake EMS, and Raleigh Police. The City continues to explore additional pathways to reduce the use of emergency responders for situations where alternative care is more appropriate. 

How We Got Here

For a retrospective look at how Raleigh CARES was developed, view our interactive timeline.

Related Information

 

Raleigh CARES Job Postings

Contact

 

Michele Mallette
Chief of Staff, City Manager's Office
michele.mallette@raleighnc.gov 

Subscribe

 

Support Pages

 
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Lead Department:
City Manager's Office