The Take Me Home program allows for the rapid identification and safe return of citizens who are unable to adequately communicate vital information. Individuals with Autism, Down Syndrome, developmental delays or cognitive disabilities may have difficulty communicating their name and address to law enforcement. Take Me Home is also intended to assist senior citizens who have dementia or Alzheimer’s. Those who are registered in this program are placed in a database that Deputy Sheriffs can access via radio and laptops in their cruisers. Take Me Home is a free and voluntary program for citizens that participate, and all information is kept confidential.
A registered individual’s information is in a secure database maintained by the Athens County Sheriff’s office. The database includes a picture, identified disability, physical description, and contacts. If a person in the Take Me Home program is encountered alone by a Deputy, or is reported missing, the Deputy Sheriff can access the database by name or the person’s description to locate their enrollment record. With the information at hand, law enforcement can appropriately assist the person.
STEP 1: ENROLLMENT
Complete the online a registration form and e-mail a photo to marshk@odjfs.state.oh.us or set up an appointment to finish the enrollment process and have your loved ones photo taken, by contacting:
STEP 2: EMERGENCY
If a registered individual is found alone by law enforcement and needs help, Deputies will search the Take Me Home database.
If the registered person is missing, it is never too soon to call 9-1-1, especially if they are disabled. The first hour is critical in finding a lost child. Inform law enforcement that the individual is registered in the Take Me Home program.
STEP 3: SAFE
With a match in the Take Me Home database, caregivers will be contacted immediately to let them know their loved one has been found.