The Hillsboro Police Department (HPD) is joining a nationwide movement to help those who struggle with autism and other communication disorders. The Blue Envelope Program is an initiative aimed at helping individuals with autism feel safer and more confident during interactions with law enforcement.

According to Tamika Lechee Morales, the Founder and President of The Autism Hero Project, the Blue Envelope Program is more than just a tool.

Morales also described the program as a bridge of understanding, empowering individuals and equipping first responders with the knowledge that they need to properly approach each situation with empathy and patience.

To participate in The Blue Envelope Program, visit a participating location. Currently you can visit the HPD, the Hillsboro Public Library and the school district unit office to pick up your blue envelope and materials. Once the materials have been acquired, simply keep them in your vehicle or on your person. No registration or personal information is required.

In conjunction with the Blue Envelope Program, the HPD will be offering an opportunity to sign up for a simulated traffic stop training. This program is specifically designed to train drivers with autism, walking them through, step by step, on what to do during a traffic stop.

In recognition of the stress of traffic stops, the department believes that when clarity becomes apparent, anxiety takes a step back, and confidence steps into place. The training gives the drivers that sense of having control of the traffic stop before they even put their vehicle in park.

For more information on the Autism Hero Project, go online to www.autismheroproject.org. For information on participating Blue Envelope locations, you can call your local police department at its listed non-emergency number.