Blackstone & Millville Police Continue Commitment to Autism Support
The police departments of Blackstone and Millville remain committed to fostering inclusivity and building trust with all members of the community — especially individuals with autism and their families.
In recent years, both departments have taken steps to improve how officers engage with individuals on the autism spectrum. Officers have participated in specialized training to better understand autism-related behaviors, communication styles, and best practices for safe, supportive interactions. These initiatives help ensure that community policing is compassionate, informed, and effective. April is National Autism Acceptance Month, and this year brings renewed focus to these efforts.
Advocacy in Action
Cognitive Impairment Indicator Form: Helping First Responders Help You
In addition to their awareness efforts, Blackstone Police have launched a Cognitive Impairment Indicator Form Initiative last year. This program helps individuals with autism and other cognitive challenges by allowing families to provide critical information that can assist officers in responding to emergency situations safely and effectively.
How It Works:
- Families voluntarily submit a form with details about a loved one who has autism, dementia, or another cognitive impairment.
- This information is kept on file and helps officers tailor their response in an emergency to ensure safety and understanding.
👉 Learn more and submit a form: Cognitive Impairment Indicator Initiative
The Blue Envelop Project
Millville Police Department is also a supporting partner of the Blue Envelope Project — an initiative aimed at improving interactions between police officers and drivers on the autism spectrum.
The Blue Envelope Project was developed through a collaboration between the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, Massachusetts State Police, Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts, and The Arc of Massachusetts, with direct input from individuals with autism and their families.
The program equips individuals with a blue envelope designed to hold essential driving documents. In the event of a traffic stop, the envelope can be handed to the responding officer. The outside of the envelope contains instructions and tips to help guide the officer through the interaction in a way that is calm and respectful, taking into consideration the needs of someone on the autism spectrum.
The program’s goals are to:
- Enhance officers’ understanding of autism
- Reduce stress and anxiety for drivers on the spectrum
- Facilitate clear, respectful communication
- Encourage preparedness for both officers and individuals with autism
Residents can pick up Blue Envelope materials by visiting the Millville Police Department at 10 Central Street, Millville, MA 01529.
Autism Awareness Patches are also available in Millville
The Millville Police Association is offering Autism Awareness patches this year for $10 each to raise awareness and funds for autism-related initiatives.
📍 Available for purchase at:
🔹 Millville Police Station
🔹 George’s Variety
📬 Can’t make it in person? Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope with payment to:
Millville Police Association
10 Central Street
Millville, MA 01529
Why Advocacy Matters
Both the Blackstone and Millville Police Departments continue to be leaders in autism advocacy, ensuring that individuals with autism and other cognitive impairments are better understood and supported in our community.
By being an advocate, whether it’s buying a patch or sharing the information, you’re showing your support for autism acceptance, contributing to local special education programs, and helping create a more inclusive community. 💙♾️
