In a bright display of solidarity and community spirit, local law enforcement and fire agencies in Dakota County rallied this October for the annual Pink Patch Project. The effort led by the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office joined agencies from across the metro to raise funds and awareness for cancer research.
On Thursday the sheriff’s office announced that, together with other first responder agencies, they presented a donation to the American Cancer Society on behalf of this year’s campaign.
“Together, agencies raised over $18,000 to support the fight against cancer, with more donations still coming in!” the office posted on social media.
Earlier in October, City of Hastings officials encouraged residents to get involved before time ran out.
“If you haven’t stopped at the Hastings City Hall or the Hastings Police Department to pick up your Pink Patch items, you have 2 weeks left!” read a social media post from the city. The post noted that during regular business hours one could pick up shoulder patches, a pint glass, or color changing plastic cups—all with proceeds benefitting the American Cancer Society at month’s end.
The Pink Patch Project is a nationwide campaign that began in 2013 when the Seal Beach Police Department in California wore pink patches during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to draw attention to the fight against breast cancer. By 2015 the project expanded when the Irwindale Police Department began selling their pink patches to the public, raising more than $20,000. The idea has since spread globally, becoming a tool for both awareness and fundraising among public safety agencies.
In Minnesota, the statewide chapter of the campaign, the Minnesota Pink Patch Project, reports that the Rosemount Police Department was the first agency in the state to participate, joining in 2017. Since then, more than 50 Minnesota agencies have taken part and through 2024 they collectively raised over $330,000 for cancer organizations.
In Dakota County this year the collaborative effort of multiple agencies helped to continue that legacy of giving. Officials stressed that the campaign is volunteer driven, with member agencies designing and selling their own items to benefit cancer research, education and patient support, rather than drawing on taxpayer funds.
The City of Hastings and Dakota County Sheriff's Office join the rest of the country during the month of October for the Pink Patch Project with sales of merchandise with the organization’s patches on various items. Mark your 2026 calendar now to join the fundraising next year!