Mansfield Police Department Secures $10,000 in Grants to Provide Free Locative Tracking Devices for Vulnerable Residents

MANSFIELD — Chief Ronald Sellon is pleased to announce the receipt of two $5,000 grants, totaling $10,000, to provide free locative tracking devices (such as GPS wearables) to Mansfield families caring for loved ones with autism, dementia, Alzheimer’s, intellectual disabilities, or other conditions that may lead to wandering or elopement.

This new funding expands the Home Safe Mansfield program, a joint initiative designed to keep vulnerable residents safe through prevention, preparation and rapid response. The locative technology portion specifically targets prevention by equipping eligible families — who might otherwise be unable to afford these tools — with devices that send real-time location alerts to caregivers and, when needed, directly to first responders.

“Wandering can happen quickly and unexpectedly, and these devices give families an extra layer of protection and peace of mind, and we are grateful to State Representatives Adam Scanlon and Michael Chaisson, as well as our federal partners, for making this possible,” said Chief Sellon.

Eligible families can receive a tracking device at no cost, along with training on how to use it. Devices will be selected for reliability, ease of use, and compatibility with emergency response systems.

To apply or learn more about the locative technology assistance:

• Contact the Mansfield Police Department at 508-261-7300 or Policeadmin@mansfieldma.com
• Contact the Mansfield Fire Department at 508-261-7321
• Reach out to the department’s community partners:
  • Mansfield Council on Aging, Josephine Madrazo: 508-261-7368
  • Assistant Superintendent Jessica Davis, Mansfield Public Schools: 508-261-7507

Families are also strongly encouraged to complete the Mansfield Fire and Police Special Response Plan form. This confidential questionnaire provides critical information (including a recent photo, description, medical needs, and de-escalation tips) that helps first responders respond quickly and compassionately during any emergency. The form is available online as a fillable PDF or in paper format and can be submitted electronically or by mail.

Home Safe Mansfield continues to grow through strong community partnerships with the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism, Mansfield Council on Aging, SEPAC, and Mansfield Public Schools. Together, we are building a safer, more supportive Mansfield for everyone.

“Keeping our most vulnerable residents safe is a responsibility we take very seriously,” said Chief Sellon. “Elopement and wandering can turn into an emergency in minutes, especially in a community with ponds, busy roads, and wooded areas. This grant allows us to provide families and caregivers with proven tools that bring peace of mind and, when needed, enable rapid location and safe return.”

For questions about the locative technology grants, the Special Response Plan form, or any part of Home Safe Mansfield, contact the Police or Fire Department.

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