Authorities in south Lake County are implementing a pilot program to help people who have a mental illness.

The program is called the Mobile Crisis Response Service.​ 

In a few months, a licensed clinician will be responding with Clermont police officers to help when dealing with people who have a mental illness.  

The Lake County Sheriff's Office and Clermont Police partnered with LifeStream Behavioral Center. They held a joint news conference Tuesday morning.

Officers also demonstrated an encounter with a person in a mental-health crisis through a virtual demonstration. ​

"We're reducing fear of people with mental illness, we’re reducing fear of law enforcement in people with mental illness by building that partnership," said LifeStream Behavioral Center Director Karen Rogers​.

The three-year program is one of 34 nationwide funded by a $250,000 grant. The program will eventually be expanded to Minneola.