The Bettendorf Police have added a patch as an important reminder and message to their uniforms that’s helping the Gray Matters Collective raise awareness and money during National Suicide Prevention Month in September.
Code 4 Public Safety Emblems in Davenport designed the new patch that is available for a $10 donation at the Bettendorf Police Department, 1609 State St. They also can be purchased along with apparel that showcases the patch from LogoPro in Bettendorf at www.bettendorf.org/PatchStore until Friday, Sept. 20.
All of the proceeds from the patch and a portion of the apparel sales will go to The Gray Matters Collective.
“We are deeply thankful for the Bettendorf Police Department’s support of our mission to advocate for mental health awareness,” said Haley DeGreve, CEO/Founder of The Gray Matters Collective. “I firmly believe that the greatest contributions to a nonprofit come from giving your time, talent and treasure. The Bettendorf Police Department exemplifies this by not only supporting us, but also handling much of the behind-the-scenes work that enables us to serve the community effectively.”
The Gray Matters Collective, founded by Ms. DeGreve, now serves more than 45 chapters in middle schools, high schools, and colleges across the Midwest.
“With the funds raised, we aim to expand into more schools in lowa,” she said. “Additionally, these funds will support our First Responder Gray Matters chapter. This chapter provides local first responders with the tools, resources, and safe spaces they need for their own mental health. This is crucial, as first responder suicide rates are at an all-time high in America.”
