Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network and the city of Allentown have partnered to continue providing a technological solution that aids in the search and rescue of adults and children with autism and other cognitive disorders who are at-risk for wandering.
On Wednesday, Good Shepherd donated $2,400 to Allentown to purchase a year’s supply of batteries and nylon bracelets needed to continue the Project Lifesaver program.
Since 2012, Allentown’s Project Lifesaver program has outfitted people who are prone to wandering with a bracelet. The bracelet contains a transmitter that emits a signal each second, 24 hours a day. If that person wanders away, the Allentown Police Department mobilizes to pinpoint the person’s exact location. The program currently serves 40 people in Allentown.
“We are excited to partner with Good Shepherd to bring additional awareness to the Project Lifesaver program,” Allentown Police Chief Glenn Granitz, Jr. said. “The more children and adults we can outfit means we have a better chance of keeping them away from harm.”
Good Shepherd President & CEO Michael Spigel, PT, MHA, presented Good Shepherd’s support to Mayor Ray O’Connell, Chief Granitz, the Allentown Police Department’s Community Outreach Unit and City Council members at Allentown City Hall.
“Project Lifesaver provides an expert, leading-edge solution for children with autism and their families, as well as other community members living with cognitive disorders and at-risk for wandering,” Spigel said. “It became apparent that we as an organization had the opportunity to support Allentown’s outstanding efforts of reducing potential injury and saving lives through a vital public service. In recognition of the children with autism and their families who we serve, I am honored to be here today to present Good Shepherd’s support of Project Lifesaver.”
Parents or guardians in Allentown who are interested in obtaining a tracking bracelet can contact Allentown Police Captain Jim Keiser, Project Lifesaver coordinator, at 610-437-7741.
Learn more about Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network.