A new approach to community safety and wellness
The Policing Alternatives & Diversion Initiative is an Atlanta-based non-profit organization that provides an alternative to police response and diversion from jail for people experiencing extreme poverty, problematic substance use, or mental health concerns.
Call 311 & select Supportive Services to engage PAD’s Community Response team.
Community Response Services through ATL311
PAD provides Community Response Services throughout the City of Atlanta in partnership with ATL311’s Supportive Services department.
From 7 AM to 12 AM Monday through Friday, PAD can be engaged by calling 311 to make a referral for individuals experiencing extreme poverty, substance use, or mental health concerns.
Hear from PAD Participants
From darkest days to renewed hope, our participants stand before City Council to share their journeys in their own powerful, inspiring words. This is what PAD is all about.
About PAD
MISSION
PAD works to reduce arrest and incarceration of individuals who are experiencing unmet mental health needs, problematic substance use or extreme poverty and increase the accessibility of supportive services in Atlanta and Fulton County.
VISION
The Policing Alternatives & Diversion (PAD) Initiative affirms the autonomy and dignity of every person, and recognizes the harm of repetitive police engagement and arrest for people who are in need of healthcare, housing, and basic resources. For our communities to thrive, we envision deep and broad investment in healthcare, recovery support, housing, basic income, mass transit, public bathrooms, and other public goods.
Our Approach
WORKING FOR OUR COMMUNITY
PAD fosters a new approach to community safety and wellness by engaging in creative problem-solving to respond to community concerns, and addressing people’s human needs with dignity, patience and care.
Support PAD’s Work
Your support allows us to continue to do the important work of supporting our community here in Atlanta.
