Thursday, April 25, 2024
4/25/2024
New Jersey is committed to developing a comprehensive crisis response system that will respond to 988 calls, chats and texts originating in this state. This project will build the capacity of NJ’s current Lifeline centers to ensure the appropriate level of response, linkages and follow up for individuals who reach out to 988. The system is designed to serve people who are experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal ideation as well as family and friends of these individuals. In 2020, the Lifeline received 55,068 calls from NJ and according to the Growth Model offered by Vibrant, it is expected that New Jersey will receive between 119,000 and 187,900 calls annually by year 5 of the 988 roll out. This will require a significant increase in response capacity beginning with the launch of 988 in July, 2022. In addition, NJ plans a “no wrong door” structure for the 988 system. To meet this expectation, staff will be trained to respond to contacts from or about adults, children and youth, and people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Therefore, in addition to preparing for the anticipated increase in volume, centers must train new and existing staff regarding de-escalation skills, crisis rescue services, and comprehensive referral options. In preparation for the grant award, DMHAS will develop a Request for Letters of Intent (RLI). This RLI will offer funds to the 5 current Lifeline call/contact centers in New Jersey (NJ) with the goal of quickly building their capacity (staff and/or technology) to respond to calls, chats and texts that come into the centers through 988. Project Goals 1. Maintain contact center infrastructure and ensure 24/7/365 coverage for 988 calls. 2. Identify ongoing funding for statewide 988 crisis response system. 3. Improve statewide answer rate for mental health crisis and suicide prevention calls. 4. Expand capacity to enhance response system for coverage of 988 calls, chats and texts. Measurable Objectives 1. By May 16, 2022, New Jersey will award funding for capacity building to up to 5 (current) Lifeline contact centers. 2. By June 15, 2022, New Jersey will achieve and maintain an in-state answer-rate of 90% or higher. 3. By June 30, 2022, New Jersey will establish 24/7/365 in-state primary coverage for all counties. 4. By September 29, 2022, New Jersey will submit a plan for responding to Lifeline chat and text requests initiated within the state. 5. By March 30, 2023, New Jersey will submit a sustainability plan for long-term workforce capacity and KPI metrics. 6. By June 30, 2023, New Jersey will ensure 100% coverage of calls and more than 90% percent statewide answer rate. 7. By June 30, 2023, New Jersey will establish 24/7/365 in-state primary and backup coverage for Lifeline Calls
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).
