Youth Substance Use Prevention Coalition Seeks Public Input

The North Reading Youth Substance Use Prevention Coalition is seeking community input. As part of our ongoing efforts to creatively reduce risk factors and strengthen protective factors in our community, the Coalition is exploring the idea of fundraising for a community comfort dog. The comfort dog would work alongside the School Resource Officer in the schools and at community events, under the supervision of the North Reading Police Department. The dog and handler would also be available to respond to town crisis no matter what the age, when deemed appropriate.

The Coalition anticipates fundraising approximately $30,000 to cover initial costs and some future needs. If the project moves forward, the Coalition and NRPD would collaborate on a sustainable, long-term funding plan. This is not REPLACING any town funding nor co-opting it. It would be an independent fundraiser by volunteers.

This dog would serve only as a comfort dog and would not perform any other law enforcement activities such as narcotics or explosives detection.

We invite residents to share their thoughts and feedback on this potential project.

Please provide feedback using the link below or email us at northreadingcit@gmail.com.
https://docs.google.com/forms/...