~ AS REPORTED BY WPVI-TV ABC NEWS ~ April 28, 2023 ~
Thank you, 6abc Action News. –
The Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the no-cost Autism Decal, which will alert Emergency responders that there is a person with autism in the home or vehicle, enabling Sheriff’s Office deputies to draw on their autism training. This training informs law enforcement that there is someone in the home or vehicle that may not speak, respond to, or comply with verbal commands and may not have an awareness of danger.
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The Autism Decals will be provided free of charge to anyone in Philadelphia. It will only be distributed to those who register with the Office of the Sheriff. Our office recommends placing them near the front door of a home, or in the rear window of a vehicle to ensure that law enforcement officers are aware an occupant has Autism. This is part of our comprehensive training and response program which is grounded to assist resident’s needs.
“The Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office is increasing programs and offerings to provide better service residents living with Autism in their families. This is an important part of our approach, along with our partners, that will be rolled out over the next few months.” – Sheriff Rochelle Bilal.
The goal is to assist deputies/officers better understand as they approach the vehicle in an emergency, providing more information to make better decisions on how to approach, to underscore being patient, calm, and understanding in cases involving an individual who is on the autism spectrum to improve outcomes.
Project partners include Open Arms Home Care, Independence Blue Cross, State Representative Jordan Harris, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, Yesha Ministries, Inc., the Philadelphia Police Department, the Philadelphia Probation Office, the Philadelphia Fire Department, Caring for Friends, Wawa, the Share Food Program, Insomnia Cookies, Lytle Love Foundation, Inc., Citizens Police Oversight Commissions, PGW, SpArc Services, Autism R.E.C., the Philadelphia Autism Project, Sharing Excess, and Pennsylvania ASERT (Autism Services, Education, Resources, Training).
“The Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office serves every resident of the City of Philadelphia, and we are excited to partner with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia on this important event. We are focused on making sure our community outreach events touch all sectors of the Philadelphia community. This event is part of that effort.” – Sheriff Rochelle Bilal
“April is World Autism Awareness Month and I support The Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office’s new program that will help alert Emergency responders in Philadelphia, so they know that there is a person with autism in the home or vehicle,” said Philadelphia City Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson (Second District), Vice Chair of City Council’s Public Safety Committee. “According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, an estimated 5.4 million (2.21%) adults in the United States have autism spectrum disorder and autism affects an estimated 1 in 36 children in the United States today. Sherriff Rochelle Bilal’s autism decals program in homes throughout Philadelphia will help keep citizens safe while interacting with emergency responders.” – Philadelphia City Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, District 2
“Bringing awareness and resources to our community to promote autism inclusion will help increase unity and understanding while minimizing stigma. It’s an honor to partner with other elected officials to bring this sense of belonging and respect to South Philadelphia.” – State Representative Jordan Harris
“We are proud to support the Sheriff’s Office with their Autism Decal Initiative designed to bring education and awareness to both residents and law enforcement. We believe in using the power of our 76ers brand to help improve our communities and this initiative aligns with our mission. We look forward to celebrating Autism inclusiveness and bringing awareness to the community later this month.” – Mike Goings, Vice President, Social Responsibility and Fan Development
Would you like to be notified when the Autism Decals are released? Sign Up using the form below and the Sheriff’s Office will contact you.
