Reach Out Program (click to view brochure-Adobe PDF required)

Netcare’s Reach Out Program is a mobile, intervention service in Franklin County. This service is designed to transport publicly intoxicated persons off the streets, out of the public or business establishments, to a place of safety and shelter. In addition, this service offers individuals education on the resources available in the community. Reach Out workers are in the community twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week, logging over 140,000 miles a year and transporting around 1,500 individuals a month. The Reach Out vans are able to transport up to three (3) individuals at a time while protecting the confidentiality of those served. Inebriated clients are generally transported to providers such as drug and alcohol treatment centers, men’s and women’s engagement centers, homeless shelters, community mental health centers, hospitals, Veteran’s Administration clinics or the client’s place of residence. Individuals who may benefit from Reach Out services include:

     • Persons who are intoxicated or seemingly under the influence
     • Inebriated persons who are considered at risk to themselves by such actions

       as walking in traffic, sleeping outside in unsafe conditions or weather, putting themselves

       in situations where they could be victims of crime or those who are incapacitated

       or unable to care for themselves.
     • Persons who are under the influence and receptive to Reach Out services

Reach Out vans have been purchased by contributions to the Netcare Foundation and the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health (ADAMH) Board of Franklin County. The Reach Out workers are dispatched by Netcare’s Emergency Response Service (888) 276-CARE (2273), the Columbus Division of Police or the Columbus Division of Fire. Individuals, businesses, other community agencies may request Reach Out services at anytime. Transports are prioritized on a case-by-case basis.