Clay County Sheriff's Office starts 'Elder Watch Program' | News

GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. -- To help make sure Clay County's elderly citizens stay safe, the Clay County Sheriff's Office has launched the "Elder Watch Program."

The program is designed to keep CCSO in regular contact with special needs residents and home bound seniors.

"Our goal is to avoid situations where elderly or special needs residents are found deceased inside their homes after a medical crisis or accident, because too much time lapses between contacts," said Mary Justino, CCSO Public Information Officer.

Here's how the program works: CCSO's Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) contact program participants by telephone daily. If the person cannot be reached after three attempts, CCSO contacts the primary and secondary contacts listed.

Then, if determined to be necessary, a CCSO deputy may enter the residence to provide assistance. This is pre-authorized by the participant.

To participate in the program, fill out this form and deliver it in person to the VIPS office at the Governor's Creek Boat Ramp in Green Cove Springs or mail it to: Clay County Sheriff's Office, Attn: VIPS Coordinator, P.O. Box 548, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. For more information, call 904-213-6062.