Special Beaumont Police Dept. Patch Aims To Bring Autism Awareness

BEAUMONT, CA — In recognition of April's Autism Awareness Month, the Beaumont Police Department has created a special patch for people who fall within the spectrum. Throughout the month, family members of autistic children who come to the police department lobby (660 Orange Ave.) can ask for the special "puzzle patch."

"If possible we would love to meet the child, but it is NOT a requirement to receive a patch," the department relayed over social media. "We recognize each child is different and there may be social or communication limitations, which may prevent that."

The patches are available 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The puzzle or interlocking pieces on the special Beaumont Police Department patch represent the unknowns of autism, and the different colors represent the vast diversity of the autism spectrum.

"When people wear or display the puzzle piece, they support efforts to find a cure for Autism, as well as acceptance of those who live with Autism," according to the police department's social media post. "The puzzle piece is not limited to one community or a branded symbol of one organization. Instead, it signifies several major things unique to Autism and is a rallying point for the family and friends of those with Autism. The puzzle piece is the component which defines each person with Autism; that, without that piece, we couldn’t be the fantastic people that we are."