In keeping with April as Autism Awareness Month, Sheriff Christina Corpus, announced the start of "Project Guardian," a voluntary program where individuals, families, or caregivers can register those who might be vulnerable, at risk, or who have special needs with the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office.
While the program is primarily designed to raise awareness and provide tools for officers who interact with people with autism, the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office is confident that by expanding outreach, it can also help those who have a variety of needs.
Participants in Project Guardian are able to provide comprehensive information, including communication preferences, triggers, fears, hiding places, special concerns, and calming strategies along with a photograph, the agency said in a statement.
The Sheriff's Office said it will create and keep the information provided confidential in your Project Guardian record.
"Our office members can access this secure information prior to, or during a contact so they are better equipped for interactions, can de-escalate situations, and are able to communicate more effectively with those who may require or prefer different styles and approaches," the authority specified.
After learning about this program, Sheriff Corpus believed in the significant impact it could have on the county, and made it an early campaign priority when she was running for the position she holds today.
“I am delighted that we are able to provide this vital service for some of our most vulnerable residents. I am confident that this partnership between the Sheriff's Office and members of our community will result in increased peaceful contacts, as well as a deeper understanding of people with different needs," Sheriff Corpus said.
He also specified that the Sheriff's Office cares deeply about inclusion, and embraces the diverse needs within San Mateo County. "We believe Project Guardian will help us continue to build positive relationships with those we serve and keep all members of our community safe."
Project Guardian participants will receive decals to display on their vehicles and/or on the front window of their residences for easy identification.
The Sheriff's Office will also provide comprehensive training for its staff that will help guide them on how to effectively interact with those who have different needs.
The Sheriff's Office Guardian Project will officially go live at the end of April; however, people who would like to take advantage of this service can fill out an interest card on the website at https://www.smcsheriff.com/project-guardian.
Once the program goes live, those who filled out the form will receive a notification and further instructions to sign up, and once the Guardian Project information has been added to the system, they will receive a letter and stickers confirming their participation.
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