The Verizon Foundation and Verizon Wireless recently presented a $25,000 contribution to Safe Call Now, a new organization devoted to helping law enforcement and other public safety workers and their family members acknowledge personal problems and receive assistance without losing their job.

Safe Call Now founder and Executive Director Sean Riley is a former Kirkland Police Officer who battled substance abuse during his years on the force and now leads a growing nationwide movement to save the lives of those who protect us all.

Police officers, firefighters and other public safety officers often suffer personal problems caused by the tragedy they see on the job, leading to increased substance abuse, domestic violence and suicide rates. Employee Assistance Programs are under-utilized, as many officers fear admission of an alcohol or drug problem will cost them their livelihood.

Safe Call Now is a non-governmental organization providing a 24-hour hotline offering confidential referrals for treatment, to solve personal problems before they become a public crisis. Safe Call Now refers clients to resources helping them overcome addictions, marital and family issues, depression, suicide, financial problems and more. The organization enjoys broad support within law enforcement, and succeeded in passing a new state law that raises confidentiality standards for crisis referrals and requires personal crisis training for public safety officers.

Verizon Wireless and the Verizon Foundation believe Safe Call Now is a model organization that addresses a growing problem at a critical time.