NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The Project Life Saver program helps law enforcement locate and safely return vulnerable residents in Newport News.
On Sunday, Newport News Sheriff’s Office deputies escorted more than 90 motorcycles to raise money for lifesaving programs.
87 bikers took part in raising money for Project Life Saver.
This search and rescue program targets individuals with cognitive illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, Down syndrome, and autism.
Capt. Candice Gross told News 3 the program helps find people wandering from their homes.
“Typically, as soon as we receive a missing person report, by the time we get to the scene it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to find it,” Capt. Gross said. “I think this is definitely a lifesaver, especially when it comes to things like weather changes. Most of the people in the program are frail when it comes to weather conditions and situations like that.”
News 3 spoke to one family who has benefited from the program: Adam, a 26-year-old son.
“He has been on Project Lifesaver for almost 19 years and is severely autistic and non-verbal. He is at risk of elopement,” said Lisa Pankowski, Adam’s parent. We are relying on Project Lifesaver in case he escapes.”
The Project Lifesaver program is currently available free of charge to anyone living in Newport News.
