SEPTA's Reach program sends outreach specialists to Philadelphia transit stops

According to PhillyVoice, SEPTA has launched a new program called Reach, under which social outreach specialists in purple vests are patrolling stations in Philadelphia. The specialists aim to connect people experiencing homelessness, mental illness or addiction with local resources.

What the Reach program does

According to information released by SEPTA, the program began deploying staff on Tuesday. Specialists are sent to locations the authority describes as hotspots for social vulnerabilities across the system. The staff come from Citizens Acting Together Can Help, known as CATCH Inc., a nonprofit based in South Philly.

During weekdays over the next year, specialists will engage with vulnerable people who take shelter in SEPTA stops. They can offer transportation to community services that provide housing, mental health support, recovery support and veterans resources. SEPTA said anyone who declines assistance will be asked to leave the system. Specialists may also request police help if a situation escalates.

Link to Transit Police and rider reports

Reach operates as a division of SEPTA Transit Police and works closely with its officers. Staff will have access to safety reports that riders submit through the SEPTA app and the customer service center, which will help guide where the teams focus their efforts.

SEPTA Transit Police Chief Charles Lawson described the program as a key part of the authority's enforcement approach toward the vulnerable community and of efforts to reduce quality-of-life complaints. He said the specialists will act as a force multiplier.

Partners and statements

SEPTA General Manager Scott Sauer said in a statement that the program is meant to help build a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone who relies on the system. The authority also said it has formed partnerships with government agencies, nonprofits, healthcare providers and community groups, and it is encouraging more groups to reach out and collaborate.

Representatives of CATCH Inc. did not immediately respond to requests for comment, according to the report.