The East Ridge Police Department is beginning a new program aimed at its senior citizens.

A press release about the program states that almost 20 percent of East Ridge citizens are 65 or older. The program’s goal is to work in conjunction with seniors within our community to address their needs and improve their quality of life.  By participating in the program, seniors will have a representative of the department contact them weekly to check on their welfare and address concerns.  If contact is not made with the senior, an officer will be sent out to the residence and the designated emergency contact will be notified.

“At its heart, the City of East Ridge still has small town values and strives to take care of members of our community, Chief Stan Allen states in the press release. “Toward that goal, The East Ridge Police Department in partnership with graduates of the Citizens’ Police Academy has implemented a Community Care Program.”

To enroll in the program, a senior or family member is required to fill out the participation form.  A department representative will contact the senior to schedule a meeting at their home.

To qualify for the free program, you must be a resident of East Ridge over 65 years old.  Those over 18 with physical disabilities may also be eligible.

Applications are currently available in the lobby of the East Ridge Police Department located at 4214 Ringgold Rd. and will soon be available for downloading on the City of East Ridge website.