The Federal Way Police Department teamed up with a nonprofit organization to provide short-term relief during interactions with community members in distress.
According to a press release from the Federal Way Police Department (FWPD), the department partnered with the BlueBridge Alliance program, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing public safety by fostering greater public trust in law enforcement. According to the release, the Bluebridge program enables officers to provide short-term relief by providing food, clothing, fuel, shelter, transportation or assistance with affording necessary medication during interactions with distressed community members.
“Such interactions create opportunities to reach those at risk of criminal behavior, as well as those who are victims of crime, homelessness, or mental health crises,” the release states. “Furthermore, the program offers alternative solutions to traditional enforcement options, potentially preventing an individual’s downward spiral through the justice system.”
According to the release, FWPD Chief Andy Hwang said that the BlueBridge program enables officers to meet people at their point of need, not just as law enforcers, but also as compassionate and dedicated public servants. The release stated that since its inception, the program has provided meaningful connections with law enforcement for thousands of individuals and families.
According to the release, the BlueBridge program acts as a bridge between immediate relief and longer-range solutions through other coordinated programs. According to the release, the FWPD’s threefold premise it seeks to fulfill with the program is immediate short-term assistance by officers in the field to those in critical need, enhanced public relationships with local law enforcement and the community, and enhanced impact on officer morale.
“The BlueBridge program represents the kind of compassionate, forward-thinking approach to public safety that our community both needs and deserves,” Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell said. “By equipping our officers with resources to offer real help in moments of crisis, we’re not only building trust — we’re changing lives. I fully support this partnership and commend our Police Department for leading the way in strengthening the bonds between law enforcement and the people they serve.”
