For many individuals, grocery shopping is a simple chore. But for those with sensory sensitivities, the music, bright lights, and crowds make a trip to the store more difficult.

In 2022, the Gilbert, Arizona, Police Department became autism certified through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, meaning that at least 80 percent of agency staff are highly trained; fully equipped; and certified in identifying autistic characteristics, communicating and interacting with autistic individuals, and de-escalating situations involving individuals with autism. To reflect the diverse community of Gilbert, the police department began searching for unique community policing efforts that would pertain to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Learning that a large chain grocer in Ireland offered “quiet evenings” (which included reduced lighting, limited music and announcements, lower till scan sounds, and priority queuing), agency personnel thought this would be a perfect event to emulate.