Program to Help those with Alzheimer’s, Autism Funded by Fauquier Health Foundation

Warrenton Police Department Receives Grant for Project Lifesaver

November 2, 2015— Fauquier Health Foundation announced today that it has awarded its first Make it Happen grant to the Warrenton Police Department to fund a partnership with Project Lifesaver International. The primary mission of the project is to provide a timely response to save lives and reduce potential injury for adults and children who wander due to Alzheimer’s, autism, and other related conditions or disorders. The Project Lifesaver Program will soon be available to Warrenton town citizens. The Fauquier Health Foundation is providing $5,000 to fund Project Lifesaver, which is being matched by an anonymous donor.

Chief of Police Lou Battle submitted the application noting the important role a program like this will play in keeping town residents safe. Said Chief Battle, “We have heard from so many parents of children with autism, adult children caring for their parents who have Alzheimer’s, as well as groups who care for people who would be good candidates for Project Lifesaver. Funding this program will help us in our efforts to keep all of our citizens safe, as well as giving added support to parents and caregivers.”

Arlene Diorio, Program Manager for Fauquier Bridges Day Support, serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In a letter of support for the program she said, “Currently we have individuals who are wanderers and some with autism. It is a constant worry that they may leave or wander away. Project Lifesaver would offer us an additional level of security and peace of mind.”

The program works by having qualified citizens wear a battery powered transmitter that emits a constant radio tracking signal every second, 24 hours a day. Should this person become lost or separated from their caregiver, Officers will use their training and equipment to locate the person. The national average of locating a person is approximately 30 minutes. Once the Department receives the equipment and Officers are trained in its use, they will publicly announce the application process and launch the program.

“We are delighted to offer this grant for such an important new program in Warrenton,” stated Christy Connolly president and CEO of Fauquier Health Foundation. “The incorporation of this technology will add an important level of safety to those who may be vulnerable to wandering or becoming disoriented.”