Building Trust, Ensuring Safety
The Children and Resident’s Encounter (C.A.R.E.) program is a proactive initiative by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office aimed at creating positive interactions between first responders and individuals with special needs within our community. We believe that fostering understanding and trust helps ensure everyone’s safety in emergency situations.
Program Goals
- Building Relationships: C.A.R.E. provides opportunities for first responders to meet and interact with children and adults with special needs in a relaxed, non-emergency setting. This helps build familiarity and trust, reducing anxiety and fear during potential emergencies.
- Vital Information Sharing: Families can provide crucial information to 911 dispatch and first responders about their loved ones’ unique needs and communication methods. This information can be invaluable in ensuring a safe and effective response when an emergency occurs.
- Education and Awareness: The program educates first responders about the diverse needs and challenges faced by individuals with special needs, enabling them to provide more compassionate and appropriate care.
- Community Engagement: C.A.R.E. fosters a sense of inclusion and belonging within the community, creating a more supportive environment for all residents.
Program Activities
- Meet and Greets: First responders meet with individuals with special needs and their families, learning about their communication preferences and any specific considerations for emergency situations.
- Interactive Demonstrations: Participants have the opportunity to explore emergency vehicles, equipment, and even meet K-9 officers in a fun and informative environment.
- Games and Activities: Engaging activities are designed to build rapport and create positive experiences between first responders and participants.
Inclusive Training for First Responders
The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ongoing training for our deputies and first responders, including inclusive diversity training, to ensure they are prepared to interact effectively with individuals with special needs.
Register for the C.A.R.E. Program
If you would like to register a child or loved one for the C.A.R.E. program, please contact your local police department or the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.
