What we do
Our Approach
LEAD offers an alternative to arrest by providing intensive, low-barrier case management for people who commit or are at high risk of committing law violations related to mental illness, substance use, or chronic poverty. LEAD seeks to increase equity and reduce harm within communities by reorienting the systems that shape health and safety.
Learn MoreThe New Orleans Police Department
The New Orleans Health Department
The Office of Criminal Justice Coordination
The City Attorney’s Office of New Orleans
Orleans Parish District Attorney
Orleans Public Defenders Office
Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office
Metropolitan Human Services District
Partners
As a collective impact initiative, LEAD’s system of shared governance relies on the active input, expertise, and perspectives of a wide array of community representatives, organizations, and agencies. Together, we are building new pathways to health, safety, and equity in our community.Learn MorePress & Resources
His life was wrecked by drugs, homelessness. New Orleans LEAD program offered a way out.
August 23, 2023
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https://www.nola.com/louisiana_inspired/new-orleans-lead-program-for-homelessness-drugs-expands/article_f0da3a9a-e5e9-11ed-9c82-3b1468e8a8c2.htmlRethinking public safety three years after George Floyd
May 18, 2023
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https://centerforhealthjournalism.org/our-work/webinars/rethinking-public-safety-three-years-after-george-floydPolice Reform and Equitable Justice Grant Program – 2022 Grant Award Winners
June 8, 2022
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https://www.usmayors.org/programs/mayors-and-business-leaders-center-for-compassionate-and-equitable-cities/police-reform-and-equitable-justice-grant-program-2022-grant-award-winners/New Orleans cops try help instead of handcuffs for downtown’s ‘frequent flyers’
December 16, 2018
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https://www.nola.com/news/crime_police/article_c951ad45-d147-5064-805b-7137ddd9258b.htmlWith Jail Diversion Program, New Orleans Follows Seattle’s LEAD
February 22, 2018
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https://safetyandjusticechallenge.org/blog/jail-diversion-program-new-orleans-follows-seattles-lead/