New crises-response team to rollout in March

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico (KVIA) -- In an effort to improve crisis response and better serve the community, the Las Cruces Fire Department is launching a new crisis-response team called "Project LIGHT.” LIGHT is an acronym for lessening incidents of grief, harm and trauma.

The team consists of specially-trained firefighters and EMS personnel who will work alongside mental health professionals to respond to mental health crises, substance abuse, and other behavioral health issues.

Project LIGHT aims to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental response to individuals in crisis and connect them with the appropriate resources and services they need to begin the journey toward healing.

The rollout of Project LIGHT begins March 6 and will operate Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.