Yonkers Police and Schools Team Up to Support Students Through “Handle With Care”

The Yonkers Police Department, in collaboration with the City of Yonkers and Yonkers Public Schools, has introduced a new program called “Handle With Care” — an initiative designed to ensure that children who experience trauma receive quiet, compassionate support in the classroom.

The idea is simple but powerful: when police respond to an incident where a child may have witnessed or been affected by distressing events — such as a domestic dispute, medical emergency, or mental health crisis — officers can submit a confidential “Handle With Care” alert. That notification goes to the Yonkers Police Department’s Community Affairs Division, which serves as the program liaison. From there, it’s securely shared with the designated contact at Yonkers Public Schools.

Importantly, the message only includes the child’s name and date of birth. No details about the event or investigation are disclosed, protecting both the student’s privacy and any ongoing police work. This brief notice gives educators a heads-up to pay closer attention and offer care without prying or labeling.

Once a student’s school is notified, staff members may take small, supportive actions — such as arranging a quiet check-in with a counselor, offering more flexibility on assignments, or simply creating space for the student to feel seen and safe. The goal is not to discipline or investigate, but to help the child process the experience and continue learning in a nurturing environment.

Since the initiative launched in September, Yonkers officers have already made more than a dozen referrals. Each represents a student who, thanks to the program, receives care instead of slipping through the cracks after a traumatic experience.

Mayor Mike Spano praised the effort, saying:

“Handle With Care reflects the best of Yonkers — compassion, collaboration, and community. I’m grateful to our police department and public schools for working hand in hand to make sure our children feel protected and supported when they need it most.”

Police Commissioner Christopher Sapienza added that the program extends officers’ impact beyond immediate response:

“By keeping lines of communication open with school staff, our officers can help children recover emotionally in the days after a difficult incident. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.”

Superintendent Aníbal Soler, Jr. echoed that sentiment, noting that the partnership aligns with the district’s Yonkers2030 strategic plan, which emphasizes student well-being:

“A child’s emotional health is deeply connected to their ability to learn. When something happens after school hours, those challenges can show up in the classroom. This collaboration helps us understand what a student might be going through — even without details — so we can respond with empathy and care.”

Residents can learn more about the Handle With Care program by contacting the Yonkers Police Department’s Community Affairs Division at (914) 377-7293.