As the next step in its Approach with Care Autism Awareness Initiative, Tallahassee Police Department volunteers joined the staff of the FSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) to stuff sensory comfort bags Wednesday, Oct. 14, at the FSU Health and College of Medicine offices on Phillips Road.
For many individuals with autism, emergency situations can be overwhelming. Delayed responses, sensory sensitivities, or difficulty processing verbal instructions may be characteristics of autism, rather than signs of noncompliance.
“Flashing bright lights and loud noises such as sirens can disorient and upset an adult or child with Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD,” said CARD Director Catherine Zenko. “When used in conjunction with the Approach with Care vehicle stickers that are available to the public at no charge, these bags will help police initiate more positive interactions between police and some of the more vulnerable members of our community.”
Led by Chief Lawrence Revell, Deputy Chief Jeff Mahoney and other TPD leaders, the group stuffed 500 bags in a little more than an hour, fueled by a lunch provided by Whataburger. The bags will be distributed to patrol officers to help create safer interactions between law enforcement officers and individuals with ASD.
For Mahoney, who helped spearhead the initiative and is the father of a young autistic son, the effort is about turning greater understanding into meaningful action.
“Understanding is important, but what we do with that understanding matters even more,” he said. “From the beginning, Chief Revell has supported our efforts to make sure officers have the training and resources they need to better serve individuals with autism and their families. These bags are another tool that can help create a calmer, safer interaction for someone who may experience the world differently, and another step in our commitment to meeting people where they are.”
TPD provided the bags and most of the items for them, including sunglasses, noise-blocking headphones, stickers and other toys and games intended to help soothe and calm someone with ASD. CARD added laminated picture communication boards, blank white boards, and a stress (squishy) star with the FSU CARD logo and website printed on them.
The partnership between FSU CARD and TPD launched on July 22. Free Approach With Care vehicle decals are available through TPD’s Community Relations Unit, FSU CARD, Leon County Schools through Exceptional Student Education teachers, and MidTown Print. Other community partners include Behavioral Management Consultants, Cayer Behavioral Group and Early Steps.
FSU CARD is one of seven regional, non-residential resource centers funded by the Florida Legislature through the Florida Department of Education. They provide free support, consultation, and training across the lifespan for individuals with ASD and related disabilities. Led by Zenko and Executive Director David Ledbetter, FSU CARD has offices in Tallahassee, Panama City and Pensacola, serving the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend.
