Cambridge, MA may deploy unarmed social workers to 911 calls

Imagine you're being held hostage or witnessing a shootout at a gas station and next thing you know, an unarmed social worker arrives to save the day! Woo hoo, can't wait to see how that unfolds! Hopefully that's not something that ever happens, but you never know! The city of Cambridge is preparing to possibly send unarmed social workers to some 911 calls, as reported by NBC Montana:

The city’s Community Assistance Response and Engagement (CARE) team is preparing its 911 crisis response, which “prioritizes a trauma-informed lens and resources when attending to the needs of the community.” CARE would be deployed in nonviolent cases, such as mental health concerns, and will not be accompanied by police.

A job opening on the CARE team requests individuals who are passionate about “advocating for our vulnerable communities” and who are “dedicated to supporting folks from 911 calls to after-care.” The minimum requirements for the position do not list a college degree, but mention “experience in crisis intervention.”

Applicants are also asked to demonstrate a “commitment to anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. The position pays between $30.74 and $36.04 per hour.

A spokesperson for Cambridge told The National Desk CARE is meant to "supplement the City’s already excellent public safety and emergency services."