Share a cup with a cop
FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine — Engaging the community in public safety efforts is a top priority for the Fort Fairfield Police Department. To enhance those efforts, the department is kicking off a new program entitled Coffee with a Cop.
Coffee with a Cop is a national movement that aims to build trust between community members and police officers, one cup of coffee at a time. The first coffee gathering will be at R.H. Foster’s, located at 214 Main Street in Fort Fairfield, at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 24, 2016.
All are welcome to attend and no reservations are required.
It’s a simple concept, said Fort Fairfield Director of Public Safety Shawn Newell: police officers and community members come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and start a conversation over a cup of coffee.
The program has been overwhelmingly successful, with departments in more than 80 cities in 24 states developing community trust and building partnerships. One of the keys to the effort’s success is it removes the physical barriers that routinely exist between police officers and community members, allowing for relaxed, one-on-one interactions. This informal contact in a friendly atmosphere increases trust between police officers and community members which is critical to addressing issues impacting public safety and fosters creative, co-operative problem solving.
For more information, contact Newell at 472-3808.
