JFCS of the Suncoast is excited to introduce the Community Youth Response Service (CYRS), a mobile mental health initiative for children and youth aged 9-17 experiencing non-emergency crises. Funded by grants from the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, the Roberta Leventhal Sudakoff Foundation, and Sarasota County, CYRS provides rapid intervention for issues like suicidal ideation without intent, self-harm, school absenteeism, and substance use. The program offers free, short-term counseling and case management, helping youth stabilize and transition to long-term care.
Operating Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., CYRS responds within 120 minutes of a call and collaborates with schools, law enforcement, and crisis hotlines to ensure youth receive the support they need. By bridging the gap between crisis response and ongoing mental health care, CYRS aims to reduce emergency interventions and law enforcement involvement, ultimately improving access to mental health services in Sarasota County.