Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition, Resilient Coastal Georgia honors first responders at ‘Handle With Care’ recognition ceremony

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition and Resilient Coastal Georgia hosted a recognition ceremony last Thursday, honoring first responders from local police, fire and EMS agencies for their commitment to helping children exposed to trauma.

This ceremony recognized first responders with the Handle With Care program, piloted by Chatham County in 2021.

The program connects first responders, schools, and community organizations to make sure children who experience traumatic events get compassion and support instead of punishment or stigma.

“As a community, we all have a role to play in ensuring that our children feel safe, supported, and valued,” said Kim Clifton, executive director of the Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition. “These first responders are helping to change the way our community responds to trauma by turning a moment of crisis into a pathway for healing.”

When a responding officer, firefighter, or paramedic encounters a child at the scene of a traumatic event, they submit a confidential report to the school system with the message “Handle With Care.” Educators then provide additional understanding and flexibility without disclosing details of the incident.

“When we know a student has experienced something difficult, we can engage them in a more meaningful way,” Dr. Miller-Fields said. “With the right support and resources, they can stay on their learning path and continue becoming the people they were meant to become.”

The ceremony recognized the commitment of local agencies as a part of this program.