172536_CPCA_2020_Spring Magazine - Final | Page 17

The Seaside Police Department learned the Monterey County Unified
School District was leading a food bank for those affected by the
economic decline. With so many children relying on the schools for
daily meals, it was without thought this would be a worthy cause to
help with. The Seaside Police Department was fortunate enough to
invest in a SNAACK van (Seaside Nutrition, Academics & Athletics
for Cops and Kids) late last year. The van was designed to pass out
healthy snacks, school supplies and athletic equipment for the less
fortunate within our community. Seaside Police reached out and
partnered with the School district and set up prepackaged healthy
snacks at the designated food bank locations. The response from the
public was positive and heartfelt.
Then came celebration drive-by parades. Who would ever think
the words police and drive-by in the same sentence would mean
something so optimistic? One of our community members, Conner,
was celebrating his 5th birthday. As any 5-year-old, a celebratory
gathering with toys, cake and friends is an absolute. With the growing
threat of COVID-19, birthday parties are all on hold. The parents
of Conner reached out to the Seaside Police and asked if they could
surprise Conner with a parade of police cars driving by the house.
The officers responded and left a lasting impression and unforgettable
birthday for one special little boy.
We all get caught up in our daily lives and routines and often forget
about the little things that have such a significant impact on society.
We all need each other and we are in this together. The Seaside
Police Department recognizes that although this pandemic is geared
towards a heath related response, we all can play a role in keeping our
communities strong.
The Seaside Police Department has embraced this new role and will
continue to navigate through this pandemic to strengthen the relationship
with the community.
It does not take much to show we care. As stated
by a wise woman, “Give someone a smile, it will
cost you nothing.”
—RHONDA RAMEY
SPRING 2020 | CALIFORNIA POLICE CHIEF 17