Reading, MA — Chief David J. Clark is pleased to share that the Reading Police Department will be showing support for the Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support by debuting a new patch during recovery awareness month.
September is observed as National Recovery Month, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Services Administration, to support new treatment evidence, recovery practices and the recovery community.
The patch will be worn throughout September to raise awareness of substance misuse and mental health initiatives, as well as programs and services that focus on prevention and support.
The patch combines the traditional Reading Police patch with the logo of the Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support. The five colored ribbons on the patch each represent a different initiative of the Coalition, with green representing Mental Health Awareness; blue representing Bully Prevention Awareness; purple representing Recovery Awareness; red representing Substance Misuse Prevention Awareness; and yellow representing Suicide Prevention Awareness.
Residents who would like to receive a patch should show proof of donation to any non-profit organization that supports any of the programs within the coalition.
Proof of donation should be submitted to Community Service Officer Kristen O’Shaugnessy at KOShaughnessy@ci.reading.ma.us or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to CSO O’Shaugnessy at the police station, 15 Union St., Reading, MA 01867.
About the Reading Coalition
The Reading Coalition for Prevention & Support, formerly known as RCASA, was established in 2006 in Reading. The coalition started as a town, police, school, and community initiative focused on improving collaboration and reducing substance abuse. The coalition was grant-funded from 2007-2019. Today, the coalition is funded under the Reading Police Department, and offers programs and services that focus on substance misuse prevention and mental health promotion.
The coalition as a vehicle for community change has proven to be an essential component in reducing substance use and abuse in Reading through a variety of prevention efforts. The coalition focuses on shared accountability, community education, coalition trainings, youth leadership programs, special events and advocacy. Coalition staff focus on achieving three goals:
- Improve community collaboration
- Reduce substance misuse
- Promote mental health
For more information on the Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support, visit their website.
For more information on how to receive a patch, call 781-942-6761 or email CSO O’Shaughnessy at KOShaughnessy@ci.reading.ma.us.
