Friends of the Community Decal Program Launched to Improve Communication with Individuals with Special Needs
The Shreveport Police Department in collaboration with our law enforcement partners at the Bossier City Police Department and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office are excited to announce the launch of a new voluntary disability decal program called “Friends of the Community.” This initiative promotes better communication and understanding between law enforcement and individuals with special needs.
The “Friends of the Community” program provides residents with a decal that helps first responders identify individuals who may have difficulty communicating or understanding directions during an emergency. The decals should be placed near the front window of a home or on the rear driver’s side window of a vehicle, making them easily visible to first responders.
By clearly identifying special needs, these decals aim to improve safety and ensure that interactions with law enforcement are conducted with greater sensitivity and awareness.
“Effective communication is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals,” said Sgt. Matt Hannah of the Bossier City Police Department. “This program is a significant step towards bridging gaps and fostering a more inclusive environment where everyone’s needs are recognized and respected.”
How to Participate: Individuals interested in participating in the “Friends of the Community” program can obtain their decals at no cost from any of the three participating agencies. The information provided for decal registration will remain confidential and will only be utilized by first responders during emergencies.
Decal Pickup Locations:
• Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office:
o Pick up locations: Any Caddo Sheriff’s sub-stations, Safety Town, or the Community Relations and Crime Prevention office located at 1501 Corporate Drive, Shreveport, LA 71107.
• Bossier City Police Department:
o Point of Contact: Sgt. Mathew Hannah
o Email: hannahm@bossiercity.org
o Phone: 318-549-4596
o Pick up location: 620 Benton Rd., Bossier City, LA 71111
• Shreveport Police Department:
o Point of Contact: Lt. Amy Bowman – Community Policing Bureau
o Email: amy.bowman@shreveportla.gov
o Phone: 318-673-6950
o Pick up location: 1234 Texas St., Shreveport, LA 71101
This program is a collaborative effort to enhance public safety and provide a more accommodating environment for individuals with special needs. All residents are encouraged to participate to help ensure that every individual receives the care and understanding they deserve.
For more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to the participating agencies directly.
