SPECIAL SERVICES UNIT

The Riverside Police Department’s Special Services Unit (SSU) is here to support community members who may be struggling with substance use, mental health concerns, or other social service needs. Our goal is to connect you and your loved ones with caring, professional help.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can walk into police headquarters or call (856)461-3434 and ask for assistance from the Special Services Unit. We will work with you to find the right services and support.

The SSU partners with the New Jersey Tip Program (NJTIP) and its volunteers, as well as county and state programs, such as Arrive Together and Straight to Treatment, to provide caring, comprehensive support. Together, these partners help individuals facing substance use or mental health challenges connect with treatment, counseling, harm‑reduction services, and other vital assistance, bringing a wide network of help directly to members of our community.

After the first contact, the SSU and NJTIP stay engaged to provide ongoing, “wraparound” care. This can include follow‑up calls, check‑ins, and help with navigating treatment, mental health providers, housing, and other social services. In many cases, this support looks like care coordination or case management so that no one has to walk this path alone.

For more information or to request help, please contact:
Lt. Lou Fisher [email protected] 856-461-8820 ext. 136

Suicide Lifeline

If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here. At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life's challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.

The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7/365. Your conversations are free and confidential.

Straight to Treatment

Straight to Treatment is designed for individuals who feel trapped in the powerful grip of addiction or substance abuse but want a way out. It offers a direct pathway to connect with treatment programs and support services that can help them safely and successfully begin the journey to recovery.

Opioid Treatment

Arrive Together

Arrive Together(Alternative Responses to Reduce Instances of Violence and Escalation) is New Jersey's statewide program pairing law enforcement officers with mental health professionals to respond to 9-1-1 calls involving behavioral health crises. It aims to reduce violence, improve safety, and connect residents to services rather than arrests.