Oxford police receive sensory kits from Ole Miss to assist individuals with autism

The Oxford Police Department has received sensory kits from the University of Mississippi’s Bridge Program to aid officers in responding to calls involving individuals with autism or sensory sensitivities.

The kits include noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, communication boards, fidget items, and weighted stuffed animals. These tools aim to reduce sensory overload and support communication during stressful encounters, according to the department.

Officers have also been provided with a training video to ensure the kits are used effectively in the field, the department said. The resources are designed to help officers connect with individuals, promote feelings of safety, and de-escalate situations when someone is overwhelmed.

The donation was made possible through collaboration with students, mentors, and staff involved in the Ole Miss Bridge Program. The department expressed appreciation for the partnership and emphasized its role in serving the community with compassion and understanding.

More information about the project is available at Ole Miss’s news website.

Source: Original Article