October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and this month we are highlighting a program that is providing services to help those individuals and families experiencing domestic or intimate partner violence.
What is Operation Reach-Out?
Operation Reach-Out (ORO) is a free program for adults who are having suicidal thoughts, experiencing intimate partner violence, and/or have recently survived a suicide attempt. There is no insurance requirement to receive these services. ORO is currently funded through a federal grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and private donations from our community.
How Does Operation Reach-Out work?
Operation Reach-Out is a free service and the qualifications are simple: you must be an adult over 25 experiencing suicidal ideation, have had a recent suicide attempt, or are currently experiencing intimate partner violence. ORO is community-based, which means that ORO clinicians meet individuals at home, school, or wherever they are in the community. Services can be provided in-person or via telehealth. Direct services provided include:
- Individual therapy
- Group support
- Crisis intervention
- Medication support services
- Case management
The ORO team also engages the individual’s family, friends, and community members to establish a long-term network of support. Through these services, the goals of ORO are to:
- Provide crisis stabilization services to individuals who are experiencing suicidal ideation, have had a recent suicide attempt, or who are experiencing intimate partner violence.
- Reduce suicidal ideation and symptoms of depression for individuals with suicidal ideation.
- Increase safe coping in relationships, thinking, behaviors, and emotions for victims of intimate partner violence.
- Connect the individual to at least one natural support.
Where can I find Operation Reach-Out or Get Services?
At this time, Operation Reach-Out is offered in San Bernardino County, which is part of our Inland Empire Region. For questions about the program or to see if an individual would be an appropriate referral, contact Dr. Rachel Riphagen at 909-266-2751.
To make a referral, call customer service at 909-266-2770.
How Can I Help?
Operation Reach-Out is a privately funded service, which means that the program relies on donations from supporters. If you would like to support these life-saving services, you can make a donation and be sure to select “Inland Empire/San Bernardino Region” option from the regional dropdown menu.
