Reading Police Selling Patches For Domestic Violence Awareness

READING, MA — The Reading Police Department is partnering with RESPOND, Inc., a local domestic violence prevention group, to raise money to help support domestic violence survivors. The department will sell custom Reading Police patches during October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

"We are proud to once again partner with RESPOND to help support and raise awareness about this incredibly important issue," Chief David Clark said. "The sale of these patches will help to fund vital resources to help survivors both in our community and beyond access the services and resources they need."

The patches are $10 each and will go directly to RESPOND to help fund services such as purchasing clothing, school supplies and medications for families, or helping at-risk survivors change their locks so that they can remain safely at home.

Anyone who would like to purchase the patch should mail a check for $10 made out to the RESPOND, Inc., along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Reading Police Department, 15 Union St., Reading, MA 01867 (attn: CSO Kristen O'Shaughnessy).

"We’re grateful to have the Reading Police Department as part of our Law Enforcement Partnerships program," Heather Lonks Minty, director of Philanthropy and Engagement for RESPOND, Inc., said. "By partnering with the Reading Police Department, we are able to take proactive measures to reach survivors and initiate services as opposed to waiting for survivors to find us when survival is the primary focus. Reading residents should be proud to live in a town that takes domestic violence seriously and is actively working to eliminate the obstacles that prevent victims from finding safety and support."

"Opportunities like this are a great way to raise awareness and make a significant difference in the lives of domestic violence survivors," Community Service Officer Kristen O'Shaughnessy said. "We're proud to help contribute to the cause and support the incredibly vital work RESPOND does to aid community members in need."

For more information, call 781-942-6761 or email Community Service Officer O’Shaughnessy at KOShaughnessy@ci.reading.ma.us.