Sheriff's office to sport pink, purple to raise awareness

COEUR d’ALENE— The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office will be sporting a new look for the month of October: Pink and purple.

The change of colors is for participation in both National Breast Cancer Awareness and Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer in women. About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point. The good news is that many women can survive breast cancer if it is found and treated early.

One in four women will be the victim of domestic violence at some point in her lifetime; on average, three women are killed every day at the hands of a current or former intimate partner.

Throughout October, communities across the country will mourn for those whose lives were taken by domestic violence, celebrate the tremendous progress victim advocates have made over the years, and connect with one another with a true sense of unity to end domestic violence.

To show support, Sheriff Ben Wolfinger has authorized his staff to wear pink and purple. Specifically, deputies and civilian staff are authorized to wear pink and purple T-shirts, ribbons and wristbands throughout the month of October to raise awareness about the early detection of breast cancer and the impact of domestic violence, and to encourage community partners, organizations, families and individuals to get involved.