Operation Lost and Found helps wanderers
Sadly, for reasons science has yet to fully explain, not everyone is born healthy. Many are born deprived of the genetic makeup to grow, to learn and to ultimately be able to care for themselves.
For others, the ability to fend for themselves departs as they age.
Madera County Sheriff Jay Varney and his department have a way to help families and caregivers keep track of vulnerable loved ones who tend to wander. The program is available to those all ages with special needs. Client identity is kept confidential and includes autistic children and adults suffering symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Founded in Madera 12 years ago by retired Sheriff John Anderson, “Operation Lost and Found” presently monitors 19 Madera County residents. The program — staffed by trained, on-call volunteers — operates from the department’s Search and Rescue team under the umbrella of the county Office of Emergency Services...