![](https://jgpr.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_5642-768x1024.webp)
![](https://jgpr.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230113_081531-1-768x1024.webp)
NORFOLK — Chief Timothy Heinz is pleased to announce that members of the Norfolk Police Department are wearing specialty patches to show their support for the autism community throughout the month of April.
April is recognized nationally as Autism Awareness Month. Throughout the month, members of the Norfolk Police Department will be showing their support for those affected by autism by wearing a special-issue badge to help spread awareness of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and promote acceptance of those who live with it.
This is the department’s first specialty patch and the effort has been spearheaded by the Norfolk Police Association.
“The purpose of our first specialty patch is to continue our mission in supporting all members of the community and to raise funds for charitable a donation,” said School Resource Officer Katie Appel. “In light of Autism Awareness Month, we have designed our first Autism awareness and inclusion patch.”
Members of the community can join in the department’s efforts of raising awareness by purchasing a patch for $10 (cash only).
Patches can be purchased at the Norfolk Police Station,14 Sharon Ave., Monday through Friday between the hours of 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Community members can also email kappel@norfolk.ma.us to make other arrangements for pickup/purchase.
All proceeds from the patch sales will benefit the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism.
The Flutie Foundation provides critical, responsive, and innovative programming and services that answer the everyday challenges of keeping people with autism safe and included in their communities. To learn more about the foundation, click here.
For any questions or inquiries regarding the patches, please contact Officer Appel via e-mail at kappel@norfolk.ma.us.
“I would like to acknowledge and thank the members of the Norfolk Police Association for taking the initiative to create our department’s first specialty badge in honor of such a meaningful cause,” Chief Heinz said. “I greatly look forward to seeing our officers and community members wear these badges with pride in support of those living with autism, and thank everyone who has supported this endeavor.”
###