New Lifeline For Senior Citizens

By Jamie Burch

Published: Tue, April 08, 2008 - 12:03 pm Last Updated: Tue, April 08, 2008 - 12:15 pm

Short URL: http://wkrg.com/a/12564/

The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office unveils a new phone system that will call elderly residents and shut-ins daily to make sure they are okay.
People who subscribe to the free service, called "CARE," can choose the days and times they want to receive a phone call. If no one answers, the system will call back a second time - then a third if necessary. If there's still no response, a deputy and/or designated contact person will go to the person's home to check on them.
Okaloosa County is the first Sheriff's Office in Florida to implement the service. But other agencies who use it, say the CARE program is especially popular with shut-ins and seniors who live alone. It also provides a peace of mind for their loved ones.
The CARE program was funded with money seized from drug dealers. For more information or to sign up, call Ashley Bailey at 850.651.7153.