MOUNTLAKE TERRACE — In their work, police officers often come across people who are struggling to get by.
Mountlake Terrace officers have been aiming to improve rapport with those they serve. That includes those experiencing homelessness, mental illness and poverty, officer Jeremy Perry wrote in an internal memo.
Perry suggested a new program that went live about a month ago. Officers in the city now are keeping a kit of outreach supplies in their squad cars. Items include beef jerky, granola bars, water and blankets, along with pamphlets about local shelters, housing assistance and addiction treatment. The program doesn’t involve money or gift cards.
The supplies come from donations, including support from the Mountlake Terrace Business Association.
Police Chief Greg Wilson recently gave a presentation to the association about “21st Century Policing,” a federal initiative that encourages law enforcement to build community trust.
“It’s been very well-received,” he said. “The people in need, instead of kicking them out of bus stops, give them some hand-warmers.”
Edmonds police officer Jason Robinson does something similar on the job, a personal project with the help of his family.
Officers long have carried teddy bears to give to children in crisis, Wilson said. The supply kits expand on that idea.
Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @rikkiking.
Get involved
Mountlake Terrace police have access to a donation fund that provides supplies for officers to keep in their cars for those in need. For more information on getting involved, contact Joie Worthen at 425-670-8260.
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