CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A virtual program that has helped Cook County residents access health care and community services now has a walk-in location on Chicago's West Side.
Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart said he set up the online Community Resource Center during the COVID pandemic, because so many people were facing obstacles getting help for a variety of issues.
"People are in crisis on very many many levels-mental health for sure, but then that rolling onto substance abuse for sure the opioid epidemic. All those things-they're very very apparent."
He said the virtual center worked so well, he decided to open an office at Division Street and Western Avenue where people can get help in-person.
“We continue to be encouraged that the Sheriff and his staff respond to gaps in our mental health and re-entry systems,” said Alexa James, CEO of NAMI Chicago, an organization that provides mental health services.
“Case management, support and care coordination continues to be an area that lacks investment. We have seen increasing need for social services at NAMI Chicago, and value the partnership and commitment to supporting wholistic wellness for our community members.”
To provide in-person assistance to other parts of Cook County, the sheriff's office plans "pop up" events and could eventually open more offices.
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