MPD program helps immobile community members

The Maricopa Police Department is offering the “You Are Not Alone” (YANA) program to provide phone calls and house visits for immobile individuals in the community.

The purpose of the program is to assure the well-being, safety and social interaction of members of the community who are unable to go about town with ease. The police hope the YANA program eliminates the fear many senior adults have about being alone. The program aims to save lives and helps individuals with limited mobility in Maricopa.

“This is a free service allowing older adults and individuals with limited mobility or who have suffered an accident or fallen sick, comfort and peace of mind knowing someone will be checking in on them on a regular basis; and in the event something happens, family or friends will be notified,” Maricopa Police Chief Steve Stahl said. “We encourage all who qualify to enroll.”

MPD Volunteers will make regular telephone calls and visits to enrolled participants. If the individual being contacted does not answer the phone after several attempts, volunteers follow specific steps to get the proper help to the resident’s location.

“If the above attempts fail and contact with the participant cannot be made, the Maricopa Police Department is called to check on the participants’ well-being,” Assistant City Manager Jennifer Brown said in a statement. “’You Are Not Alone’ works collaboratively with community and social service agencies for a coordinated response to meet the needs of residents in Maricopa with limited mobility.”

In order to qualify for the program, individuals must be Maricopa residents who are disabled or senior citizens (generally over the age of 65) who live alone. Enrolled members must be generally self-sufficient and have an emergency contact as well in order to complete the form.

To enroll, participants can call 520-316-6800, ext.1234 or email [email protected].