#BackTheBlue initiative kicks off in Indianapolis
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – A new effort is underway to help support local law enforcement officers. It’s called #BackTheBlue and was put together after recent attacks on officers in Dallas and Baton Rouge.
People can buy t-shirts and other items with IMPD logos and designs on them.
The online shop launched on Tuesday. So far more than $3,000 has been raised.
The initiative is organized by the Indy Public Safety Foundation. Executive director, Dane Nutty, says, “we’re seeing a large outpouring of support from community members and I think we just need to make it very clear that we stand with them in support and that as a community here in Indianapolis we stand behind public safety.”
Rob Turner is a patrolman with IMPD. He says the support goes a long way.
“A lot of people will say they support us but they’re kind of quiet about it. This way it shows that whoever sees them knows that they’re supporting us so it’s an outward show of support for us that normally they do on the inside,” said Turner.
Money raised through the sale of these items goes to the Indy Public Safety Foundation and will be used to help law enforcement officers.
“Training, equipment, resources, anything that can help them do their job more effectively or more safely is part of our mission,” said Nutty.
“We’re still human beings, so any human that gets some type of support like that would feel a little better with what they’re doing to know there’s people out there that are supporting us and are willing to do things for us to show that support,” said Turner.
The shirts and the gear can all be ordered online at www.shopimpd.com