This month, community members, first responders and city officials from across South King County gathered in Renton for a Lunch & Learn focused on the growing network of free, 24/7 crisis care services available to everyone. The presentation highlighted key resources such as the 988 Crisis Line, mobile crisis response teams, and progress toward opening a new Crisis Care Center in South King County.
Last year, more than 500 South King County residents traveled to Kirkland to access walk‑in mental health or substance use support at the first Crisis Care Center. A local facility will make getting help faster, easier, and more equitable. MultiCare will operate the new center, bringing trusted care and new jobs to the community. King County is currently partnering with local cities to identify an ideal location, with hopes to share a potential site by the end of the year.
Crisis services and future centers will create a safe and reliable place for people experiencing mental health or substance-use challenges to go, which will ease pressure on emergency rooms, support first responders, and most importantly, make recovery possible for everyone.
The event also provided updates on the Crisis Care Centers Levy, approved by voters in 2023. This investment is building a stronger, more accessible behavioral health system that meets people where they are, with safe care, quick response times, and follow‑up support. Today, King County’s 988 Crisis Line and mobile crisis teams are responding faster than ever, and the first 24/7 walk‑in Crisis Care Center, Connections Kirkland is already changing lives. Four additional centers, including the one planned for South King County, are on the way.
King County’s crisis services are available to everyone, from neighbors to families, friends, and anyone who needs support, regardless of insurance or ability to pay.
For more information, community members can attend the monthly virtual meetings about the Crisis Care Centers and subscribe to the Crisis Care Centers newsletter to stay up-to-date on future events!
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay provided opening remarks, and presenters from King County’s Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) included Dr. Susan McLaughlin, Director, as well as Dr. Matthew Goldman, Crisis Services Medical Director, and Jennifer Winslow, Strategic Managing Director of the Crisis Care Centers Levy.