The Clermont Police Department recently launched a new community initiative to support autism awareness.

The department is participating in the nationwide New Rochelle Police Autism Patch Challenge, according to a news release. The custom Clermont police patches can be purchased for $5 each, cash only, from 8am-5pm Monday-Friday at the police department, 3600 S. U.S. Highway 27. All proceeds will be donated to a local autism organization.

The initiative leads up to Autism Awareness Month in April. The Autism Society of America launched a nationwide effort about 25 years ago to promote autism awareness, inclusion and self-determination for all, and to ensure that each person with autism spectrum disorder is provided an opportunity to achieve the highest possible quality of life, the release states.