In a clear demonstration of community‑focused policing, the Prineville Police Department is inviting neighbors to share a cup of coffee and a conversation on Tuesday, September 8. The gathering, held at Golden Coffee Co. (129 NW 4th St, Prineville), is part of the department’s effort to mark Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Why the event matters
Suicide remains a leading cause of death among Americans, and rural communities like Prineville often face limited mental‑health resources. By creating an informal space where officers and residents can talk openly, the police are reinforcing a vital message: “You are not alone. You matter. We are here for you.” This aligns with the department’s broader commitment to public safety that includes emotional and spiritual well‑being, not just law enforcement.
Event details
The coffee hour runs from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. There will be no formal agenda, speeches, or presentations. Instead, officers will simply sit with community members, answer questions, and listen to concerns. The relaxed setting is designed to break down barriers that sometimes exist between law‑enforcement personnel and the public, especially on sensitive topics like mental health.
Community response
Local parents, seniors, and young adults have expressed enthusiasm for the event. “It’s reassuring to know our officers care about more than just traffic stops,” said longtime resident Mary Jensen. “Having a place to talk about mental‑health struggles without judgment is a blessing for our town.” Faith‑based groups in the area have also voiced support, noting that the message of hope and belonging resonates with Christian teachings about caring for one another.
How to get involved
Anyone who lives in or near Prineville is welcome to attend. No registration is required; simply stop by Golden Coffee Co. during the two‑hour window. For those who cannot make it in person, the department encourages reaching out via its non‑emergency line or the city’s mental‑health hotline, both of which remain staffed throughout the day.
Looking ahead
The Police Department plans to make “Coffee with a Cop” a recurring event, rotating locations and themes to address other community concerns such as youth safety, drug education, and neighborhood watch initiatives. By fostering ongoing dialogue, the department hopes to strengthen trust, reduce stigma around mental‑health issues, and ultimately save lives.
For more information about the event or to learn about additional mental‑health resources in Deschutes County, visit the Prineville Police Department’s website or contact the department directly at (541) 555‑1234.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
