Mobile Assistance Community Responders of Oakland (MACRO)

What to Expect after Contacting MACRO

• When we get on the scene, we will focus on the individual and their needs, not the property.
• All interactions we have are voluntary.
• We must protect the privacy of the individuals involved. We cannot provide follow-up information.

MACRO Zones

Program Overview & History

"For decades, Americans have called 911 when they are experiencing an emergency or need assistance. While this can be an effective and convenient way to deploy first responders—whether from police, fire, or emergency medical services (EMS)—community advocates and traditional first responders have long argued that many situations could be better handled by health and social service professionals." — Council of State Governments

A Community-Driven Vision

MACRO was born out of years of grassroots advocacy and public demand for alternative emergency response models that prioritize care over enforcement. In 2019, the Oakland City Council took the first step by allocating $40,000 to explore the feasibility of a civilian crisis response program. Inspired by successful models like CAHOOTS in Eugene, Oregon, Oakland leaders worked alongside community organizations, public health experts, and emergency response professionals to design a program tailored specifically to the needs of Oakland residents.

From Concept to Citywide Service

In March 2021, the City Council formally approved MACRO and placed the program within the Oakland Fire Department, recognizing the department’s strong foundation in emergency medical response and community service. MACRO officially launched in April 2022 as a pilot program serving select neighborhoods. Within just a few months—by August 2022—the program expanded citywide, marking a major milestone in Oakland’s approach to public safety. At that time, MACRO began receiving eligible calls directly through the City’s 911 dispatch system, integrating into existing emergency response infrastructure. As demand for alternative response continued to grow, MACRO further evolved. In March 2024, the program launched a dedicated direct phone line, providing community members with another pathway to access non-emergency support while helping to alleviate pressure on Oakland’s 911 system.

A Health-First Response Model

Instead of a traditional enforcement response, MACRO deploys unarmed, civilian teams trained in de-escalation, trauma-informed care, and cultural responsiveness. These teams focus on stabilization, connection to resources, and resolving situations on-site whenever possible—reducing unnecessary hospitalizations, arrests, and repeat 911 calls.

Program Growth and Impact

Since its launch, MACRO has grown into a core component of Oakland’s public safety ecosystem. The program now operates citywide, providing consistent, daytime coverage and responding to thousands of calls each year. Today, MACRO operates daily from 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM, with a team of 26 trained responders. Each response unit is staffed by Community Intervention Specialists (CIS) – experts in conflict resolution, behavioral health support, and community engagement, and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) – providing basic medical care and health assessments in the field. Together, these teams deliver compassionate, person-centered care that meets people where they are, both physically and emotionally.

Looking Ahead

As MACRO continues to evolve, the program remains focused on expanding access, improving response times, and strengthening partnerships with community-based organizations and service providers. By diverting appropriate calls away from law enforcement and emergency rooms, MACRO not only improves outcomes for individuals in crisis, but also enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of Oakland’s emergency response system. MACRO stands as a national model for alternative public safety—demonstrating how cities can invest in solutions that are responsive, equitable, and rooted in community care.

Leadership

• Elliott Jones, MACRO Program Manager, Oakland Fire Department
• Damon Covington, Oakland Fire Chief
• Michael Hunt, Chief of Staff, Oakland Fire Department
• Tina Risker, MACRO Public Information Officer, Oakland Fire Department

Stay Up to Date

• Follow MACRO on Instagram
• MACRO Photo Gallery

Additional Information