SFPD Pride Patch Project Raises $19,000 for Larkin Street Youth Services 19-082
The San Francisco Police Department, in partnership with the San Francisco Police Officers Pride Alliance and the San Francisco Police Officers Association, today presented a $19,000 check to Larkin Street Youth services (larkinstreetyouth.org), a non-profit organization that provides services to homeless youth in San Francisco, many of which are LGBTQ.
The funds were raised through the sale of specially designed rainbow-colored SFPD Pride Patches, shirts and lapel pins. During the month of June, which is Pride Month, approximately 200 sworn SFPD members wore the rainbow patches on their uniforms. Civilian SFPD members sported SFPD pride shirts and lapel pins.
This project, organized by the SFPO Pride Alliance and unanimously approved by the San Francisco Police Commission, was developed to show support for San Francisco LGBTQ communities and highlight the inclusiveness of SFPD. Department members hoped to encourage positive conversations and inspire other law enforcement agencies partner with local charities that support LGBTQ communities.
Approximately 1,800 Pride Patches were sold. The patches were also sent to and worn by law enforcement members and military members in the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. Ten other law enforcement agencies have reached out to the SFPO Pride Alliance for suggestions on how to launch similar projects.
Pictures of today’s check presentation are attached to this release. Video of SFPD officers sporting Pride Patches and the Pride SUV can be viewed at vimeo.com/339595642.
