The Jackson Police Department is reminding the community of a program that helps missing people with communication difficulties. The Take Me Home Program is designed to assist officers in the identification of people with Autism, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Down Syndrome or any other condition that makes it difficult to communicate.
Jackson police encourage caregivers of people with limited speech abilities to sign up for the program on the City website. This website section features a form where caretakers submit an individual’s information such as name, address, description, condition, and emergency contact. A current photo of the person is also required. All of the information provided will be used by officers to care for someone with communication difficulties if they are encountered by police or if an active search is underway.
Police Chief Elmer Hitt says JPD launched the Take Me Home Program in 2020 and has seen dozens of local families participate. “The program is free to sign up and the information you provide is confidential,” Chief Hitt said. “Enrolling in this program will assist our officers in caring for your loved one during their time of need. We also hope this will give families and caregivers some peace of mind if someone goes missing.”
The program is only open to City of Jackson residents. Non-city residents should contact their local law enforcement to inquire about a similar service.