The “We Call, We Care” program started this week, Chief Paul Rockenbach said. Subscribers will be called every day at the same time by the chief or another officer. Callsare placed from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m.
“This is a way we can not only check on our city’s older adults, but grow relationships throughout the City of Whiteville,” Rockenbach said.
If the subscriber fails to answer the phone after the third attempt, then someone will try to make contact with a key holder to check on the subscriber. If they cannot make contact with the key holder, a law enforcement officer from the Whiteville Police Department will be dispatched to their residence.
The WPD does ask that if the subscriber is not going to be home at the time of the call (such as for a doctor’s appointment or on vacation) that he or she call the department at 910.64.5111 to leave a message with the front office assistant. The subscriber should inform our office assistant his/her name and date (or dates) they will not be home.
“If the subscriber is admitted into the hospital for any reason, we request that someone call the above number and leave a message or speak with our office personnel,” Rockenbach said.
The new program does not replace emergency alert services, the chief explained.
“It is very important to understand that the ‘We Call We Care Program’ is not intended to take the place of Lifeline, Lifephone, or any other service a person is now using,” he said. “In fact, we urge people to use Lifeline or a similar service in addition to the “We Call We Care Program”.
Subscribers will be asked to fill out a short form which includes personal, medical and other information the Whiteville Police Department may need in an emergency. It is also required that the subscriber provides at least two people (such as relatives or neighbors) that possess keys to the subscriber’s residence. That is necessary if officers need to enter the residence to check on the subscriber. This information will be kept confidential and secure in the Whiteville Police Department. A waiver of liability is also required.
“If you have any questions about this program or need assistance completing the forms, please contact the main number for the Whiteville Police Department and speak with me,” Rockenbach said.
Subscribers can complete the program form and waiver either online on the city’s website, or use the QR Code or drop off the filled-out application and waiver at the police station on Columbus Street.
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