Philadelphia, January 21, 2025 — Today, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker signed Executive Order No. 1-25, officially launching the Kensington Neighborhood Wellness Court (NWC), a pilot program designed to provide an alternative to incarceration for individuals arrested for public drug use. This innovative initiative offers same-day health assessments and behavioral support to address substance use disorders (SUD) and focuses on rehabilitation over punishment.
A New Approach to Justice and Wellness
The Kensington Neighborhood Wellness Court represents a significant shift in handling misdemeanor drug offenses. Individuals arrested for public drug use are taken directly to the Kensington Wellness Support Center (265 E Lehigh Avenue) for medical screening, withdrawal management, and behavioral health assessments. If eligible, participants are transported to the NWC (3910 Whitaker Avenue) for a same-day court hearing. Judges, alongside health professionals, connect participants with appropriate treatment and diversion programs tailored to their needs.
“Kensington’s challenges with substance use and homelessness require compassionate, innovative solutions,” said Mayor Parker. “The Neighborhood Wellness Court is not just a means of accountability—it prioritizes health and recovery, offering hope and a path forward for individuals in need.”
A Collaborative Effort
The program is a collaborative effort led by the Office of Public Safety (OPS) in partnership with the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD), the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS), Merakey, and other key organizations. The initiative also includes legal support through city-funded criminal defense attorneys experienced in substance use-related cases.
“This program underscores our commitment to breaking down silos and delivering services that truly impact people’s lives,” said Adam Geer, Philadelphia’s Chief Public Safety Director. “By addressing the health and legal needs of individuals simultaneously, we’re building a stronger, safer, and healthier community.”
Key Advantages of the NWC
- Health-Centered Process: Medical and behavioral health assessments are prioritized before any judicial proceedings.
- Rapid Diversion: Eligible participants avoid jail and instead receive same-day adjudication and connections to treatment.
- Efficient Use of Resources: The streamlined process reduces reliance on detention and optimizes city resources.
- Innovative Justice Model: This program fills gaps in existing diversion systems, offering a humane alternative to traditional punitive measures.
A Better Future for Kensington
The Kensington Neighborhood Wellness Court aligns with the Sequential Intercept Model (SIM), ensuring individuals with substance use disorders are met with care and intervention at every step of the justice process. Participants receive immediate support, including food, comfort, and tailored recovery plans, while also benefiting from judicial supervision to encourage sustained progress.
Community stakeholders have expressed strong support for the program. Casey O’Donnell, CEO of Impact Services, stated, “The Wellness Court offers pathways to safety, recovery, and treatment, moving people away from incarceration and into systems of care. This is a critical step toward building a better future.”
Looking Ahead
As the pilot program begins, the City of Philadelphia aims to refine and expand the Neighborhood Wellness Court. The Kensington Wellness Support Center is also being developed as a community hub, with plans for art installations in partnership with Mural Arts to foster a welcoming environment.
Mayor Parker’s administration continues to prioritize innovative, community-based solutions that bridge public health and safety. The Neighborhood Wellness Court represents a pivotal step in addressing the city’s substance use crisis while promoting recovery, dignity, and justice for all.
