SAVANNAH, Ga. - s4story -- (SAVANNAH, GA) The Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition (CGIC) and Resilient Coastal Georgia hosted the Handle With Care Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, at the Coastal Georgia Center in Savannah to honor first responders from the Savannah Police Department, Chatham Fire and Police departments, Garden City Police Department, Pooler Fire Department, Port Wentworth Police Department, and Chatham EMS, for their commitment to helping children exposed to trauma.

The Handle With Care program connects first responders, schools, and community organizations to ensure children who experience traumatic events receive compassion and support instead of punishment or stigma. 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.

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The program was piloted in Chatham County in April 2021. Since data collections began in January 2022, over 670 children have received referrals from first responders, helping students receive appropriate attention and support. The program has been shown to reduce suspensions, lower absenteeism, and create safer learning environments where children can thrive.

Chief Robert Gavin, representing the collaboration between local law enforcement and the school system, praised the partnership that makes this program effective. "When our officers take the time to file a Handle With Care report, it's a simple act that can change the trajectory of a child's life," he said. "Instead of viewing a child's behavior as defiance, teachers can recognize it as a signal that something deeper is going on. This handoff helps ensure the student gets the services and understanding they need."

The Handle With Care model, now active in more than 50 counties across Georgia, is part of a growing movement to address childhood trauma at a statewide level. Advocates hope to see sustainable state funding established to support expansion of the initiative.

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The ceremony recognized the outstanding commitment of local agencies including the Chatham County Police Department, Savannah Fire Department, and Pooler Police Department. Visuals included first responders being honored, awards presentations, and remarks from community leaders.

"Handle With Care is changing the way schools respond to trauma," Clifton said. "It helps shift the mindset from discipline to compassion, reminding us that sometimes the child who acts out or falls asleep in class isn't misbehaving, they're hurting. And thanks to this program, nobody has to face that alone."

The event was sponsored by Resilient Coastal Georgia and community partners, with participation from law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency personnel across Chatham County.