The Mobile Crisis Accelerator Program (MCA) is officially up and running.
Launched by Black Onyx Management, MCAP is a new initiative designed to enhance mental health crisis response across the state of Indiana. The new program will provide grant funding, specialized training and technical assistance to Mobile Crisis Teams (MCTs), according to a press release.
“Indiana is at a pivotal moment in transforming crisis response,” Jasmine Black, vice president of community health impact for Black Onyx Management, said in a statement. “MCAP is committed to ensuring that communities have access to trained crisis teams that can provide compassionate, immediate care — reducing reliance on emergency rooms and law enforcement intervention. By equipping mobile crisis teams with essential resources, we are fostering a responsive, person-centered mental health support system.”
Mobile Crisis Teams (MCTs), which are specialized groups of mental health professionals and peer support specialists, are trained to respond to mental health and substance use crises in the community. MCTS are able to provide on-site de-escalation and crisis intervention, connections to ongoing mental health and social services, and alternatives to emergency room visits or police involvement.
Studies show mobile crisis intervention programs like MCAP can “reduce unnecessary hospitalizations and improve long-term mental health outcomes,” according to a press release. Communities with a mobile crisis response program saw a 30% decline in suicide rates over a period of three years, according to a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry.
By launching MCAP, Indiana hopes to increase access to vital mental health, crisis intervention and substance use services, ensuring Hoosiers in crisis get the care they need.
MCAP is accepting letters of intent from March 18-April 1 for organizations interested in participating in the program. Eligible organizations include government agencies, non-profits and mental health service providers located in Marion, Lake, St. Joseph, Allen and Vanderburgh County who are committed to enhancing mobile crisis solutions.
For more information about MCAP or to submit a Letter of Intent, visit mcapindiana.com.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx.
Chloe McGowan is the Arts & Culture Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper. Originally from Columbus, OH, Chloe graduated with a degree in journalism from The Ohio State University. She is a former IndyStar Pulliam Fellow, and her previous work includes freelancing for Indy Maven, Assistant Arts & Life Editor for The Lantern, and editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Chloe enjoys covering all things arts and culture — from local music, visual art, dance, theater and film, as well as minority-owned businesses. In her free time, Chloe enjoys reading, cooking and keeping her plants alive.
