Hudson County Sheriff Frank Schillari is launching a Blue Envelope Program to support drivers with autism spectrum disorder, with the kickoff set for Thursday afternoon.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
This program, the first of its kind in Hudson County, follows a successful model implemented in Connecticut and aims to improve safety and communication for individuals with ASD and police officers alike.
“As sheriff, my motto has always been that I am the sheriff for all people. This initiative ensures that members of our community with Autism Spectrum Disorder feel safe and understood during traffic stops,” Schillari said in a statement.
“I have directed my Community Relations Unit to ensure this program reaches those who need it most. I am grateful to have Hudson Community Enterprises and Whole Spectrum Autism by my side as we launch this important effort.”
The Blue Envelope Program launch event will take place this Thursday, March 6th, at 1:00 p.m. at Hudson Plaza, 257 Cornelison Ave. in Jersey City.
This will coincide with the Coffee with the Sheriff event, providing an opportunity for community members to learn more about the program firsthand.
Representatives from Hudson Community Enterprises and Whole Spectrum Autism will be present to support the initiative.
The Blue Envelope Program provides ASD drivers with a dedicated envelope to store their license, registration, and insurance card in one organized place.
The envelope also includes clear instructions for drivers on how to navigate a traffic stop, such as keeping their hands on the steering wheel until instructed otherwise and preparing for flashing lights and radio sounds from the police vehicle.
The Blue Envelopes will be available 24/7 at Hudson Plaza, 257 Cornelison Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07306. Additionally, any municipal police department in Hudson County that wishes to distribute them to known ASD drivers is encouraged to participate.
For more information on the Blue Envelope Program or the March 6th launch event, please contact the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office Det. Kelly Flores at (201) 915-1300 ext. 7074 or via email at: kflores@hcnj.us.
