Harris County Public Health launched two pilot programs in late March that aim to address the root causes of violence and provide support to those experiencing social welfare crises in unincorporated areas of Harris County, according to a March 24 news release from the department.

A Holistic Assistance Response Team was launched in the Cypress Station area, which is located along the west side of I-45 where it intersects with FM 1960 in Spring. A Community Violence Interruption Program was launched in the Sunnyside area, which falls on the east side of Hwy. 288 where it intersects with Reed Road. A CVIP will also be implemented in the Cypress Station area, according to the release.

“Cypress Station is among the leaders in Harris County for emergency calls that involve nonviolent offenses,” the release reads. “When our partners with [the Harris County Sheriff’s Office] identify instances that do not include violent crimes, our trained specialists will be sent out to remedy the situation.”

According to HCPH, a HART will consist of trained social service and health professionals tasked with aiding the HCSO by responding to nonviolent 911 calls that pertain to homelessness, mental health issues or other non-life-threatening medical concerns. Meanwhile, the CVIP team will focus on decreasing gun violence as outreach specialists meet with affected victims and families, and offer support, such as education, employment assistance and substance abuse resources.

“To make our community safe and reduce unjust racial disparities, we must stop criminalizing problems rooted in health and poverty, connect people to the resources they need and free up law enforcement officer time to focus on the most serious cases,” Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis said in a statement. “I am thrilled to see these programs launch and look forward to expanding services across the county.”