Reading Police Officers to Wear Special Patch to Help Raise Awareness of Autism

READING—Police Chief David Clark is pleased to announce that the Reading Police Department will show support for those living on the autism spectrum throughout the month of April. 

Each year, the Reading Police Department participates in the Autism Police Patch Program as part of National Autism Awareness Month. The patch, which will be worn by Reading officers, will also be made available to members of the community who donate at least $10 to the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. 

“Our officers will be wearing these patches throughout the month of April to help raise awareness of those on the autism spectrum,” said Chief Clark. “We also invite the community to help us raise awareness and support of autism-related causes by supporting the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism.”

Donors who would like to receive a patch should send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Community Service Officer Kristen O’Shaughnessy at the police station, 15 Union St., Reading, MA 01867, along with a check for $10 or more made out to the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism, or documentation of a donation made directly to the foundation.

Residents are also asked to include their email addresses when either sending or dropping off envelopes.

The Flutie Foundation provides financial assistance for families caring for a loved one with autism and educates the public about autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Click here to donate.

For more information, call 781-942-6761 or email CSO O’Shaughnessy.