Wanderer's Safety Program Update

Elizabeth Bravo Santiago

Director of Wanderer's Safety Program




As you know, the New York City Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association has decided it is in the best interest of those we serve and the organization to separate from the National Alzheimer’s Association. By doing so, we return to our roots as a local independent, stand-alone charity, where we began over 30 years ago.


Although we may have changed our name, we will continue to enroll persons with Alzheimer's or related dementias, as well as their caregivers, in our Wanderer's Safety Program and to coordinate with the New York City Police Department and other emergency responders to respond to reports of missing and found persons with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia in New York City.







We honored our longtime alliance with the NYPD and their dedication to help keep persons with Alzheimer’s safe, by presenting Transit District One Community Affairs Officer Richard Fazio with the Community Service Award at our annual Walk in October.



Over the last several years we have worked together during Roll Calls, National Night Out, and meet-and-greet events. This networking has helped us reach hundreds of caregivers and provide them with resources and information concerning wandering issues and access to our free programs and services.


The CaringKind Wanderer’s Safety Program will continue our strong partnership with the NYPD. We will work together to resolve wandering incidents and educate the community during special events and community board meetings. The NYPD will also help connect us to caregivers who need an identification product for a family member or friend who is at risk of wandering.

Scholarships are available for all persons living within the five boroughs of New York City diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia who cannot afford to pay for enrollment. Scholarships are provided through generous support from the Warner Foundation, members of the New York City Council, assembly member David Weprin, and the CaringKind Junior Committee, among other funders.