Bolivar designates April as Autism Awareness Month, implements SAFE Program Registry

BOLIVAR, Tenn. — One city is helping make their community a safer place.

On Saturday, April 26, a proclamation was signed declaring April as Autism Awareness Month in the City of Bolivar.

Additionally, the City has implemented a SAFE Program Registry, in collaboration with the Hardeman County Emergency Communications District and Eagles Nest Family Services.

The SAFE Program — which stands for Special Assistance for Emergencies — alerts emergency personnel when they may be interacting with someone with autism or other communication barriers while responding to emergency scenes.

Parents, guardians or caregivers of potential participants can sign their loved one up through a designated form that can be picked up at Bolivar City Hall or the Bolivar Police Department. The form will also be available on the City’s official website.

The registry forms are sent to the emergency communications district, which will allow responders to be alerted should an emergency arise.

For more local news, click here.