Reading Police, Organization Team Up Against Domestic Violence

READING, MA — The police department and a local organization are raising awareness of domestic violence in conjunction with Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The department is selling patches which will go toward supporting domestic violence survivors.

More information is included in the press release below from Reading police:

Chief David Clark is pleased to announce that the Reading Police Department is partnering with a local organization to raise awareness to support survivors of domestic violence during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which is recognized each October.

The Reading Police Department is partnering with RESPOND, Inc., a local domestic violence prevention agency, to help raise awareness about domestic violence by offering special patches during the month of October. These special patches will be for sale to help support those in need.

"RESPOND does incredibly important work within our community to help support those who have faced domestic violence, and we are proud to support their efforts," said Chief Clark. "I encourage community members to purchase a patch and to help us support this essential organization."

The patches cost $10 each. All proceeds will go directly to RESPOND to help survivors with basic needs, including groceries, school supplies, clothing, cleaning supplies, and more.

"We are proud to work alongside the Reading Police Department to support survivors by offering confidential, civilian advocacy following police calls," said Victoria Helberg, CEO of RESPOND. "Whether it's by helping with gas cards or groceries, we work hard to make a difference in the lives of survivors as they work to reestablish their lives and get back on their feet."

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).

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