172536_CPCA_2020_Spring Magazine - Final | Page 32

Stronger Together Though
Quarantined Apart
By: Jada Chiu
Community Engagement Manager – Newark Police Department
The City of Newark has a strong sense of community, and it has only gotten stronger
during this global pandemic. Since the health crisis surfaced locally, Newark residents
and businesses have been supporting the City's first responders in various ways.
Within the first week of Alameda County's Shelter-In-
Place Order, the Newark Rotary Club donated 400
surgical masks to our police department. Concerned
for the safety of our police officers, other community groups donated
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). In addition, there have been
many other anonymous donations of PPE from Newark residents.
Individuals and businesses have made and donated “ear savers” to
be worn with surgical masks. Of the many donations, one 18-yearold
resident designed and produced nearly 100 ear savers from his
3D printer. Local restaurants have donated food for our staff who
have worked extended shifts. A local Newark favorite, Federico's
Grill, provided dinner for our entire night shift. Even our youngest
residents have provided their support by sending cards with words of
encouragement and appreciation for the Newark Police Department.
In addition to a thank you card, one elementary student brought her
favorite starbread from Senoritas Filipino bakery.
Newark Police Department's patrol officers have partnered with the
Alameda County Fire Department to make birthdays special during
these trying times. We've coordinated efforts to drive by resident's
houses to surprise children on their birthdays whenever possible and
send happy birthday wishes over the public address systems. These
acts of kindness and community have been our attempts to brighten
the days, ease the stress, and build positive relationships with some of
the youngest in our community.
32 CALIFORNIA POLICE CHIEF | www.californiapolicechiefs.org