In a medical emergency, first responders require information fast. A $2,500 grant in 2021 from District 29 Lanark will go towards the purchase of much needed medical ID bracelets, watches and necklaces, as part of the Connect Protect program through Medic Alert.

The program enables quick retrieval of critical medical information. The Smiths Falls Police Service has a dedicated Community Services Officer, Constable Aaron Tompkins, who has been and continues to be instrumental in promoting the Connect Protect Program in Smiths Falls and Lanark County. He liaises with community organizations, provides educational material and does presentations to further the SFPS’s motto of “Community First.”

The District 29 funding will support expansion of the program in Lanark County and Smiths Falls. The $2,500 will help Connect Protect to establish a pool of funds for 50 vulnerable citizens who cannot afford to sign up for this program.

The District 29 funding is part of RTOERO’s annual Community Grants program. Districts apply for individual projects (education-related or other community initiatives) that support local programs. Up to $2,500 per project is available.

“We want to help as many people as possible to be added to the database for emergency first responders to access, and increase awareness for everyone that this vital service is available,” says Ann McGahey, president, District 29 Lanark.

Each year, a committee of RTOERO members assesses the merits of each Grant submission. For 2021, RTOERO funded 31 projects for a total of $79,885. Since the inception of the Community Grants program 21 years ago, RTOERO has donated $1.85 million to more than 525 programs and projects.