Throughout this year we have focused on the Naperville Police Departments partnerships within the community. Naperville Police Department’s Social Services Unit assists citizens in cases of domestic violence, mental illness, child/elder abuse, sexual abuse, substance abuse and youth and family issues. They provide crisis intervention in situations requiring immediate assistance, short-term counseling and referrals, assist with mental health assessments, court advocacy for Orders of Protection, assistance with death notifications and grief counseling, provide victim/witness support, and follow up on incidents reported to the police that require further assistance.
An additional benefit to having a social services team at the police department is the connections to the community it brings. Our team collaborates with outside groups (medical, religious, not-for-profit, etc.) to help deliver even more services to our community. Many residents are surprised at the tremendous resources available in the City of Naperville.
Here are a few:
Reclaim 13 is a local leader in ending the cycles of sexual exploitation for children and young adults. They provide education, community engagement and safehouses for those who have experienced abuse.
Loaves and Fishes is a pillar in our community by not only providing food assistance, but other valuable resources to help those in need gain access to resources to help them overcome barriers to improve their lives and become self-sufficient.
Connect for Life helps individuals who are struggling with substance use disorders and their families providing treatment options.
DuPagePads not only provides interim housing for homeless individuals, but also provides supportive services including street outreach, family outreach, medical respite services and employment support.
360 Youth Services helps people “navigate life’s challenges” by offering substance prevention education, counseling, and housing support to youth and families in Naperville and the surrounding areas.
Through these connections, NPD is stronger and better able to support the residents of Naperville. Learn more about some of these critical community partnerships at www.naperville.il.us/asafernaper.
