Community Care Program
The Community Care Program embeds support staff within the Boone Police Department to provide compassionate, community-based support during calls related to homelessness, mental health, substance use, and intimate partner violence. In January, 2026 the program expanded to launch a Co-Response Team, made up of a dedicated Boone Police Officer and HRC Peer Support Specialist.
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Working alongside Boone officers, a social worker and peer support specialist provide both immediate crisis response and ongoing case management, helping individuals navigate local resources and build long-term stability.
Officers and community members can refer individuals directly to the program for connection to the services that best meet their needs.
program history
The Community Care Program began at Western Carolina University with a partnership between the social work department, the criminal justice department, and the Sylva Police Department.
The program has since been implemented in Boone and in several police departments across North Carolina. It pairs social workers with law enforcement to co-respond to calls involving behavioral health, housing instability, or other complex social needs. This collaborative approach helps address underlying issues early, reducing the likelihood of future crises or justice system involvement.
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Community Care in the news
Boone PD welcomes Cierra Burgess as part of its Community Care Program
Boone PD's social worker connecting law enforcement and community
Contact
To make a referral, use the link below or reach out to Cierra Dinnal directly through phone or email.
828-719-0065