NNSO receives $6k grant to expand Project Lifesaver program
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America has awarded a $6,000 grant to the Newport News Sheriff’s Office to expand its Project Lifesaver program.
Right now, nearly 70 adults and children in Newport News are currently enrolled in the program, which is free to clients.
The money will be used to purchase new transmitters, batteries and wristbands to serve additional families who meet Project Lifesaver qualifications.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation says wandering is a common and potentially dangerous behavior for people living with dementia-related illness, as well as other cognitive disorders. Project Lifesaver technology provides some freedom from worry to families caring for a loved one who may wander away from safety. Those citizens can quickly become disoriented, be unable to return to safety or not know how or who to call for help.
“We have a 100% success rate locating and returning clients safely to their families,” said Sheriff Gabe Morgan. “The true value of Project Lifesaver lies in the peace of mind and sense of security it gives families. Those assurances cannot be measured in dollars. With this generous gift from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, we can assist more families at no cost to them.”
Project Lifesaver clients wear a small wrist or ankle transmitter that emits an individualized radio frequency signal. That frequency allows trained NNSO responders to locate the person in a matter of minutes instead of hours or days.
Deputies must qualify each year to be part of the Project Lifesaver team, training on the latest equipment so they’re prepared when they need to respond.
“The Newport News Sheriff’s Office’s Project Lifesaver program is a valuable public safety tool for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., President and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. “Every family caregiver’s number one priority is keeping their loved one safe. We’re pleased to help the Newport News Sheriff’s Office expand this valuable public safety program to protect individuals living with dementia.”
Newport News families can get information on the Project Lifesaver program by calling 757-926-8585 or going to the Newport News Sheriff’s Office website.
Anyone with questions about caring for a loved one with a dementia-related illness or accessing support services can call the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Helpline at 866-232-8484 or visit www.alzfdn.org.