Programs

Bank Robbery Response Training
Provided annually to local financial institutions, this training prepares bank staff to respond safely and effectively during a robbery. Participants learn how to recognize suspicious behavior, protect employees and customers, and provide useful information to law enforcement after an incident. Interested financial institutions can call 386.719.5742 or email pio@lcflapd.com 

Breakfast with the Chief
Held quarterly, this public meeting gives community members the opportunity to speak directly with the Chief of Police and department staff. Attendees can ask questions, share concerns, and learn about current initiatives in a relaxed and open setting.

Citizens Police Academy
This free 10-week program gives participants an inside look at the Lake City Police Department. Attendees learn about patrol operations, investigations, traffic enforcement, community policing, and other aspects of law enforcement through presentations and hands-on demonstrations.

Coffee with a Cop
Coffee with a Cop is an informal gathering held at local businesses where community members can meet officers, ask questions, and discuss community concerns. The event helps strengthen relationships between officers and the community they serve.

DEA Prescription Drug Take-Back
Held twice a year, National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day provides a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired medications. The event also educates the public about the risks of prescription drug misuse.

This initiative allows community members to voluntarily turn in expired, unwanted, or unused medications and controlled substances to law enforcement for proper disposal.

Farm Share Food Distribution
Farm Share is a Florida nonprofit food bank that works to meet the everyday needs of hungry Floridians by ensuring that no person goes hungry and no food goes to waste.

Farm Share distributions are free and open to everyone. There are no income or household size requirements. Distribution begins at 8:00 AM and continues until supplies run out. Food is provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

National Night Out
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes strong partnerships between police and the community. The event encourages neighbors to come together, meet local officers, and work collaboratively to create safer neighborhoods.

Police Explorers Youth Program
Youth ages 12 to 20* can participate in the Police Explorer Program. Explorers gain leadership skills, learn about law enforcement careers, and participate in training and community events. Those interested can email explorers@lcflapd.com for more information.

Safety Training for Houses of Worship
This free annual training helps houses of worship identify security needs and improve safety planning. The program provides guidance on emergency preparedness, threat awareness, and coordination with law enforcement. E-mail: pio@lcflapd.com to be added to receive notification of the next training.  

Shop with a Cop
Shop with a Cop is an annual grant-funded program sponsored by Walmart. The Lake City Police Department partners with the local school system to identify children who may benefit from extra support or a positive interaction with law enforcement. Selected children are paired with a police officer for a holiday shopping experience at the local Walmart, where they can purchase gifts for themselves and their families.

The event provides an opportunity for officers and youth to spend time together in a positive and supportive environment, helping to build trust and create meaningful connections within the community.

Children who participate are identified by the local school system. The Lake City Police Department does not have an application process and does not select the participating children. Families in need can click here for a list of local resources. 

Summer Youth Employment Program
The Summer Youth Employment Program provides local youth with valuable job experience while helping them build responsibility, confidence, and workplace skills. Participants gain hands-on experience in a structured work environment where they learn important skills such as teamwork, time management, communication, and problem-solving.

The program also helps keep youth engaged in positive and productive activities during the summer months. By providing meaningful work opportunities, the program encourages personal growth, builds strong work habits, and helps young people develop skills that will benefit them in future careers and educational opportunities.