By SDCN Editor
Oceanside, CA–What started as a Secret Santa Operation in December of 2021 has grown into a year-long project aimed at spreading a little kindness around the city of Oceanside.
Oceanside Police Department’s Random Acts of Kindness Project has been made possible by a $20,000 donation from the Fortin family, who established an Acts of Kindness Fund within Trauma Intervention Programs Incorporated.
“My family and I enthusiastically support the Oceanside Police Department Acts of Kindness Project. We can think of no better way for us to provide acts of kindness to Oceanside residents than by partnering with Oceanside police officers who are on the front lines and encounter those who need kindness and a helping hand on a regular basis,” said Wayne Fortin, founder of Trauma Intervention Programs Inc.
Officers encounter people daily that could use a helping hand or just a kind gesture to brighten their day. Often providing meals, clothing, or even transportation assistance. The project provides officers resources to further their ability to serve with compassion.
“The more opportunities that we have to engage with people outside of crisis situations I think deepen relationships and deepen understanding,” Oceanside Police Chief Fred Armijo said.
Oceanside police will spread the donation out in random acts of kindness throughout the year. Each month a different giving effort will focus on making connections between officers and the community. “It’s a cool experience to get out in the community and make people smile and serve in a different way,” Oceanside Police Officer Andy Gularte said.