Reading Police Raising Awareness Of Domestic Violence

READING, MA — The Reading Police Department is partnering with local advocacy organization RESPOND, Inc. to raise awareness for survivors of domestic violence.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, police will wear special patches and sell them for $10 each. All proceeds will go directly to RESPOND to help survivors with basic needs, including groceries, school supplies, clothing, cleaning supplies, personal protective equipment and more.

"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 in our community and beyond access the services and resources they need."

Anyone who would like to purchase the patch should mail a check for $10 made out to 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).

"The Reading Police Department is an essential RESPOND partner, and we are proud to work alongside RPD in service to survivors in Reading by offering confidential, civilian advocacy following police calls," said Tanina Dawidowicz, coordinator of RESPOND’s Law Enforcement Partnerships program. "COVID-19 has made it especially hard for survivors to make ends meet, so we are grateful that RPD is continuing the initiative this year. A gas card, help with groceries, funds to change a lock – these make such a difference for someone whose finances have been turned upside down by an abusive partner or the process of leaving an abusive relationship."

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