Calls of protesters to #defundthepolice have many of us reconsidering the role of police in our community. I've spoken with a number of clients who feel that we're asking too much of police to respond to everything from encounters with individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or homelessness to domestic disputes and hate crimes.
Here are two resources offering alternatives to calling the police for a variety of situations:
CAREpdx (Community. Advocacy. Readiness. Education.) has Before You Call the Police education and resources.
Portland Street Response, a campaign by Street Roots, compiled this Spreadsheet, that contains context and contact information for organizations you can call instead of the police.
I encourage you to store these numbers in your phone so you are ready the next time you need them.