Update Feb 2024- This program is currently not in operation. As soon as a new agency is identified to offer this service we will provide that updateFor individuals the outreach worker can assist: Help getting connected with services Use someone to talk to, food or other basic needs Need help identifying resources to meet the person's needsFor businesses the outreach worker can assist: Concern about person in distress or behaving in an unusual way (sleeping in public, under the influence) Conflict seen between individuals Refer someone in need of services, or to request support of a human services agency but not sure where to start Recognize that an individual needs help, but unsure whether calling the police is the right action In the event of a serious safety concern, the police should always be called, this role does not replace the role of trained police officers in an emergencyIn addition to the Downtown Outreach Workers, we have just begun a Rural Outreach Worker Pilot Program. The Rural Outreach Workers can assist with the same needs as the downtown outreach workers, except that they will be mobile, traveling across the entire Tompkins County with a focus on "high needs" areas and rural communities where there tend to be service deserts. A rural Outreach Worker can assist if someone is in need of food and pantry items, if someone is in distress but is not elevated to an emergency level (needing someone to talk with, emotional support), to refer to services, and link to resources.