West Lebanon — Community members are invited to meet with Lebanon police officers this week to build relationships, discuss community issues and drink coffee.

Coffee with a Cop is set for Thursday at 8 a.m. at Shyrl’s Diner, 31 Main St.

The majority of law enforcement’s contacts with the public happen during emergencies or emotional situations, not always the most effective times for relationship-building with the community, the Lebanon Police Department said in a news release. And some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street.

Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for relaxed, one-on-one interaction, offering a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work, the release said.

A national initiative, the program is supported by the United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services.

It aims “to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members, one cup of coffee at a time,” the release said. Similar events are being held across the county.

For more information, contact Beth Beraldi at 603-448-8800 or elizabeth.beraldi@lebcity.com.

— Staff report