Policing Alternatives & Diversion Initiative

PAD is an independent non-profit that reduces policing, arrest and incarceration by diverting people from arrest and providing alternate response to community concerns related to substance use, mental health, and extreme poverty.

Our Harm Reduction teams responds to community referrals made through the City of Atlanta 311 line for disturbances, mental health issues, substance use, public health concerns, welfare, or basic needs. 

We also accept pre-arrest diversions from the Atlanta Police Department and MARTA Police Department for charges that would otherwise result in booking at ACDC and Fulton County Jail. In 2022, PAD will partner with City of Atlanta, Fulton County, and Grady Hospital to convert a portion of the city jail into a 24/7 diversion center. 

The PAD Care Navigation team provides immediate housing support, transportation and food assistance, as well as long-term care navigation, including immediate hotel respite housing, connections to healthcare and substance use treatment, and income/benefits. . 

PAD fosters a new approach to community safety and wellness by providing an alternative to punishing people for what they do to survive. Instead, we connect with people as people, address their basic needs, and work with them to reduce harm to themselves and their neighbors. We believe communities are safer and healthier when people have what they need to not only survive, but to thrive.

Learn more about community referrals here or in the video below!