The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with local fire departments and law enforcement agencies, has raised over $8,000 for breast cancer initiatives through the Pink Patch Project. This annual campaign, which took place throughout October, aims to enhance awareness of breast cancer while supporting research and local health services in Nevada County.
During the month-long initiative, personnel from various departments, including the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office and the Grass Valley Police Department, wore distinctive pink patches on their uniforms. Additionally, they offered themed merchandise, such as pink patches, challenge coins, and apparel. Every cent of the proceeds went towards supporting local health foundations. According to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, a total of $8,439 was collected, with the majority directed to the Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Foundation (SNMHF) and a smaller portion to the Tahoe Forest Health System Foundation (TFHSF).
Engaging Community Events and Initiatives
The Pink Patch Project also featured several community events designed to raise breast cancer awareness. Notable activities included the Pink Patch Pickleball Tournament, Heroes Night at Nevada Union High School, and various local Halloween events. These gatherings not only promoted awareness but also fostered community spirit.
A standout moment of the campaign was the charity drawing for a Pink Patch shadow box, which included challenge coins from the past five years and patches from all seven participating agencies. The winner of this year’s drawing, as announced on the official Facebook post, was Kelli McDaniel. On October 25, 2023, Sheriff Shannan Moon presented a life-size check to SNMHF, expressing gratitude towards the hospital staff for their ongoing support.
The impact of the Pink Patch Project extends beyond fundraising efforts. It has provided support not only to breast cancer programs but also to law enforcement families and the wider Nevada County community. The sheriff’s office has announced plans for the next breast cancer challenge coin contest, set for late spring 2026. Activities related to the Pink Patch Project are expected to return in October 2024, continuing the commitment to breast cancer awareness.
For those interested in contributing further, the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office encourages donations directly to the Tahoe Forest Health System Foundation and the Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Foundation.
