Newtown Rotary Supports Triad Seniors Program

Newtown Rotary helps support the local Triad Program. This is a program between law enforcement, social services, and senior citizens that strives to reduce criminal victimization of older persons and becomes the link with the elderly members of the community.

One part of the program is called the emergency beacon that turns an ordinary light bulb into a flashing signal for help with the flip of a switch; it can be used as a porch or yard light. Because addresses sometimes are not clearly marked, mailboxes may be grouped together, and houses look alike, it is not always easy to find where people live. The flashing emergency beacon directs police, fire, and rescue personnel to the correct door.

Contributions by Rotary will enable emergency beacons to be purchased and then distributed to the elderly at no expense them.

 A major purpose of Triad is to develop, expand, and implement effective crime prevention and education programs for older community members. Activities center on both previctimization (preventative) and postvictimization (victim/witness assistance) aspects. Opportunity for the exchange of information between law enforcement and older persons focus on reducing unwarranted fear of crime.

Newtown Police Officer Maryhelen McCarthy and Senior Center Director Marilyn Place working together are key figures in this program, which celebrates one-year anniversary July 14.