Sgt. Shant Bedrossian
Public Information Officer

The Haverford Township Police Department is kicking off the new school year with a creative new initiative to promote helmet safety among young riders. Beginning September 2, 2025, officers will be on the lookout for students “caught” wearing their helmets while biking, skateboarding, or riding electronic scooters and e-bikes. But instead of citations, these riders will receive a sweet reward.
Through a partnership with Sweet Messina’s Bakery, located at 1217 Darby Road in Havertown, officers will issue special tickets that can be redeemed for one free cupcake.
“This program gives us the chance to highlight positive choices our kids are making,” said Police Chief John Viola. “Our number one goal is to keep our kids safe. By rewarding helmet use, we are encouraging safe behavior, building trust with our young residents, and creating positive connections between students and our officers.”
The concept, which was brought forward by a township resident after seeing the success of similar efforts in California, uses encouragement and community partnerships rather than penalties to promote safe riding. It also aligns with the Township’s broader commitment to safety. In August, the Haverford Township Board of Commissioners introduced legislation requiring helmets for riders under the age of 16 for e-scooters and e-bikes. A second reading of the ordinance is scheduled for September 8, 2025. If passed, the law will go into effect ten days later.
“We’re proud to partner with the Police Department on such a creative program,” said Gabriella Messina, owner of Sweet Messina’s Bakery. “If we can use something as simple as a cupcake to reinforce safety and bring smiles to kids’ faces, then we’re doing our job as neighbors, too.”
The Police Department encourages all parents and caregivers to talk with their children about helmet safety and to set a good example by wearing helmets themselves.
For more information about the helmet initiative, please contact the Haverford Township Police Department at (610) 853-1298.
This is an Official Press Release of the Haverford Township Police Department issued on the authority of Chief John Viola.

PD Admin

The Haverford Township Police Department provides an On-Line Police Blotter. The initial page will contain the current month of weekly reports. These weekly reports will contain listings of the various law enforcement incidents, events and other occurrences of interest to residents of Haverford Township. We hope to utilize this new tool as a means providing an open line of communication between the Police Department and the residents we proudly serve.