Poulsbo fire cares

C.A.R.E.S. – COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE, REFERRAL, AND EDUCATION SERVICE

Introducing Poulsbo Fire CARES
Poulsbo Fire CARES embodies a comprehensive approach to community well-being, comprising a dedicated team of professionals adept in crisis intervention and community support. At its core, Fire CARES pairs a firefighter/EMT skilled in crisis management with a mental health professional, forming a multidisciplinary unit aimed at addressing behavioral health needs within the community. Dispatched through collaborative efforts between the Fire and Police departments, the Fire CARES team stands ready to provide essential support to individuals grappling with a spectrum of challenges, including chronic medical conditions, mental health issues, substance use disorders, and home safety concerns.

Fostering Connectivity and Community Engagement
Central to the mission of the CARES program is its commitment to facilitating connections between individuals and the appropriate resources and services, thereby mitigating the strain of non-emergency calls on local fire and police departments. Operating within the North Kitsap region, encompassing Poulsbo, Suquamish, Kingston, and Bainbridge Island, Fire CARES collaborates closely with educational institutions, agencies, and service providers to enhance accessibility to crucial care services.

Driving Improved Outcomes and Cost-Efficiency
With a track record of success, Fire CARES stands as a proven model that not only enhances individual outcomes but also yields cost-saving benefits. By reducing reliance on emergency response mechanisms and curbing unnecessary visits to emergency rooms, Fire CARES contributes significantly to optimizing resource allocation while ensuring that individuals with barriers to care receive the support they need.

A Commitment to Community Well-Being
Grounded in a steadfast commitment to community service, the Fire CARES team prioritizes the holistic well-being of individuals across all age groups, from youth to seniors. Crucially, these invaluable services are offered to those in need without any financial burden, exemplifying a commitment to equitable access to care and support.

In essence, Poulsbo Fire CARES epitomizes a proactive and compassionate approach to addressing behavioral health needs within the community, serving as a beacon of support and resilience for all individuals it serves.

To contact a member of the CARES Team:

CARES Office: 360.697.8288
On-Duty Phone: 360.994.8511
Email: [email protected]

Meet the CARES Team

JULIE ROGERS, MSW, LICSW – Lead Community Support Specialist

Julie brings a wealth of expertise as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in integrative health and mental health. With a seasoned career spanning 17 years, she has seamlessly navigated diverse roles in public mental health, educational settings with at-risk adolescents, child welfare, private therapeutic practice, crisis intervention, and co-response within emergency medical systems.

Julie’s strategic focus on de-escalation, risk and safety assessments, needs assessments, and service navigation/resource connection underscores her dedication to holistic well-being. As a certified crisis intervention team coordinator, she demonstrates leadership in fostering critical community partnerships and relationships, addressing the escalating demand for effective community responses to behavioral health crises.

VICTORIA EFFRAY, BSW – Community Support Specialist

Victoria holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work and Global Health which she obtained in 2017 from Arizona State University. She has a diverse background including providing mentoring and coaching in an after-school summer program, as an outreach specialist with the Peace Corps, and has worked with adults who have developmental disabilities. Most recently, Victoria provided crisis intervention services to youth and their families within a public mental health setting. Victoria is committed to supporting individuals in need and fostering positive community relationships.