New crisis response team for mental health and substance use in Kelowna
News Release
People experiencing mental-health or substance use crisis in Kelowna will soon have access to a community-led crisis response service delivered by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).
Crisis Response Community Led (CRCL – pronounced circle) Kelowna will support people aged 13 and older experiencing a mental-health or substance-use crisis, which might include thoughts of suicide or self-harm, feelings of grief, panic or anxiety, and/or acting or feeling in ways that are distressing. The service is expected to become available to the public in early 2026.
The CRCL team will respond to calls from people who are in crisis, their loved ones, or other concerned members of the public.
“Addressing crime and improving community safety takes collaboration across all levels of government and a comprehensive approach that brings different solutions together,” said Mayor Tom Dyas. “The CRCL service ensures people in crisis receive compassionate, community-based support, while enabling police to focus more on crime and safety-related calls. Public safety is a priority for the people of Kelowna and this Council, and programs like this help create a safer, more responsive community for everyone.”
Kelowna’s CRCL team is made possible through collaborative investments by the Government of Canada through Health Canada and the Emergency Treatment Fund, the Province of BC, and the City of Kelowna.
"There is no one-size-fits-all approach to solving the overdose crisis, and no community can solve it alone. By investing in community-driven, culturally relevant, and evidence-based initiatives, we are making sure people have access to the care and support they need, close to home,” The Honourable Marjorie Michel, Federal Minister of Health.
CRCL Kelowna will be staffed by skilled mental health professionals and people with lived experience who are trained in providing trauma-informed, culturally safe crisis support. A mobile response unit will meet people where they are, including supporting those with lived or living experience of homelessness.
“CRCL Kelowna will connect people in crisis with care that is both professional and deeply personal,” said The Honourable Josie Osborne, Provincial Minister of Health. “By combining clinical expertise with the lived experience of those who’ve faced similar challenges, we’re building a model of care rooted in compassion and community. It’s a powerful reminder that healing happens best when people feel seen, heard, and supported every step of the way.”
"The launch of the non-police crisis response teams will make a real difference in Kelowna by providing timely support for people in distress while reducing pressure on emergency services. The Government of Canada’s $1.5 million investment, together with provincial and municipal support, is making this important initiative a reality. Together, we are building a safer and stronger community right here in Kelowna,” The Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement) and Member of Parliament for Kelowna.
CRCL services will include safety planning, acute crisis management, advocacy and referrals to mental health services and supports, wound care, distribution of food, clothing and other supplies, as well as crisis follow up.
CRCL Kelowna will not field calls related to medical emergencies or where there is immediate danger to life (for the person in crisis or others), such as in the case of an overdose or an active suicide. Those calls should continue to be directed to 911. Teams will also not provide dispute resolution services, remove people from public spaces, detain people under the Mental Health Act, or provide long-term care.
The establishment of CRCL Kelowna represents the successful completion of Kelowna’s Community Safety Plan – Action 1.2 to explore the creation of alternative, community-based responses to police calls involving people in crisis. For more information, visit crcl.ca
Left to right: Superintendent Chris Goebel, Officer in Charge of Kelowna Detachment; Hon. Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement), Member of Parliament for Kelowna; Amna Shah, MLA, Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health and Addictions; Mayor Tom Dyas, City of Kelowna; Mike Gawliuk, CEO of Canadian Mental Health Association Kelowna; Darren Caul, Public Safety and Policing Policy Director, City of Kelowna.
