The Celina Police Department is expanding its efforts to better serve vulnerable residents through new and compassionate mental health initiatives.
With the help of community partners, the department’s Mental Health Unit is broadening its Take Me Home Program and introducing new “Stevie–STIM” bags designed to bring comfort and care to those in crisis.
Expanding The Take Me Home Program
Originally developed by the Pensacola Police Department in Florida, the Take Me Home Program provides a confidential and secure way for families and caregivers to register individuals who may need special assistance if they become lost, disoriented or face an emergency. The program is free to Celina residents and serves those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, developmental or intellectual disabilities, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Participants’ information (including a current photo, physical characteristics and emergency contacts) is entered into a secure database accessible only to authorized public safety personnel. If an enrolled individual is found alone or reported missing, officers can quickly access the database to identify the person and contact their loved ones…