Kids & Cops

Kids & Cops provides vouchers in $5 and $25 denominations to local law enforcement members to assist youths, 18 years and under, from low-income families in need of immediate assistance. It is the goal of this program to foster positive relationships between local communities and law enforcement as well as to make an immediate and positive impact in the lives of the children who benefit from the program.

The Situation

In southern Nevada, a segment of the population is living in conditions that are hard to imagine. The most vulnerable of our society lack the basic necessities that many take for granted.

However, approaching those in need can be difficult at times. Often, when a police officer arrives in a disadvantaged neighborhood, apartment complex, or trailer park, residents will go inside, lock their doors and shut their blinds in order to avoid being confronted or asked by a member of law enforcement to get involved with neighborhood issues.

The Solution

To curb these trends, United Way of Southern Nevada President & CEO, Dan Goulet, convened with Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s former Sheriff Bill Young in 2003 to develop a solution.

Kids & Cops was created through an innovative partnership between United Way and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (Metro). A voucher system was created in which officers could issue vouchers to Walmart in $25 denominations for basic needs such as: clothing, backpacks, and hygiene items such as toothbrushes or toothpaste; and $5 vouchers for a hot meal at McDonald’s. At its inception in 2004, Kids & Cops was implemented in two Metro area commands, identified as having the greatest need, Bolden and Northeast.

“There are instances every day where Metro officers can diffuse domestic disturbances and street situations involving youth by meeting the immediate needs of those in distress. Often times, it comes right down to providing basic needs like clothing or a meal. Kids & Cops gives officers and investigators the tools and resources to make that possible," said Dan Goulet, United Way President and CEO.

Now, even during a minor disturbance call in those areas, kids are running towards the police car to greet officers. They are offering assistance instead of resistance. Kids & Cops is having a positive influence with neighborhood youth and among police officers. Everyone agrees; it is making an immediate and long-term impact.