EAST PROVIDENCE — The East Providence Fire Department recently raised nearly $2,000 to support Autism awareness.

Throughout the month of April the EPFD sold nearly 250 Autism Awareness patches for The Autism Project, a collaboration of parents, professionals and community members that provides support, training and programming that is accessible to all for Rhode Island children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.

“The Autism Project is so grateful to the East Providence Fire Department and all of the first responders,” said Kristen Steiner, senior development manager at The Autism Project. “The EPFD has gone above and beyond to support the local community and The Autism Project. “Thank you to all those that made the Autism patches such a success, you are truly helping to make a difference in the lives of those we support.”

EPFD Lt. Carl Godfrin designed the Autism fire patch and sticker to sell to the community in order to raise funds for the nonprofit and to offer the patches to other members of the EPFD. Because of the generosity and good nature of the members of the EPFD and patch collectors in locations throughout the world including Ireland, Berlin and the United Kingdom, the EPFD raised $1,700.

The East Providence Fire Department supports many of the same causes and organizations on an annual basis, but this year Godfrin wanted to switch it up while also supporting an organization with a big impact on the community.

“The Autism Project has offered training to public safety to assist us in dealing with those affected by Autism during an emergency, as well as other related services,” Lt. Godfrin said. “I felt I needed to somehow give back and I have always had a liking to unique duty patches.”

Added EPFD Chief Glenn Quick, “I supported the effort as an expression of solidarity and allowed the members of the department wear the patch on their uniforms during Autism Awareness month. I am very proud of Carl’s effort in taking the initiative to design the autism patch and stickers.”

Those interested in purchasing any of the remaining patches or stickers, please contact Lt. Godfrin at cgodfrin@eastprovidenceri.gov. There are approximate 20 patches left at $10 each and stickers are still available for $3 apiece.

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