Atlantans now have an alternative to calling 911 when they see someone struggling with mental health, extreme poverty and a range of other non-emergency quality of life concerns.
The Policing Alternative and Diversion Initiative, or PAD, has a 311 line and sends out response teams to help people with medical care, housing and financial issues.
Lisa Hagen of WABE reports.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
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