Caramore support for the CDF

[David Chapman]

Orange County Commissioners,

Thank you for your dedicated service to Orange County and your commitment to supporting vulnerable populations. Caramore Community serves adults living with severe and persistent mental illness through comprehensive housing, employment, and peer support services. Since 1974, our team has provided structured, supported, affordable, and safe housing, currently assisting 64 adults at Orange county locations including University Commons, Overlook Apartments, and Wonderful House. Our efforts are funded locally and statewide, including support from Orange County, the NC Division of EIPD, and Alliance Health.

We respectfully request your approval of construction funds for a Crisis Diversion Facility (CDF). This new facility will directly address gaps in timely and coordinated crisis response, ensuring improved collaboration between mental health professionals and community-based support providers. While Caramore is not funded as a first responder, we often find ourselves at the forefront of mental health crises, working closely with law enforcement and hospital personnel. Effective crisis coordination is critical, and poor management can reinforce stigma and undermine community support, jeopardizing our capacity to serve those in need.

Your support for the CDF aligns with the commissioners’ mission to serve vulnerable residents and strengthens the broader Orange County community. A dedicated facility will help divert individuals from justice involvement and homelessness, contributing to stability and independence for our citizens living with mental illness. We recognize the challenges you face and deeply appreciate your careful consideration of this investment.

Together, we can build a safer, healthier, and more inclusive Orange County. Thank you for your partnership and leadership in advancing community well-being. We look forward to discussing next steps and the positive impact your approval will have for all residents.

David Chapman

President and CEO

Caramore Community, Inc.

Mobile: (919) 201-1492

Office: (919) 967-3402 ext. 106

Fax: (919) 942-9732

www.caramore.org

[Jean Hamilton]

Dear David Chapman,

 

On behalf of the Orange County Board of Commissioners (BOCC), thank you for sharing your viewpoints about the need for the Crisis Diversion Facility.

 

As you know, the BOCC will be deciding on the guaranteed maximum price for construction of the facility at our June 16, 2026 business meeting. .

 

Sincerely,

Jean

 

Jean Hamilton, Chair

Orange County Board of Commissioners

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From: David Chapman <dcha...@caramore.org>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 10:13 AM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Caramore support for the CDF

 

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