Boston — The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department reinstated its Elderly Identification Program this month after acquiring new equipment. The new technology will enable the Sheriff’s Department to print two-sided, color ID cards for seniors in Suffolk County.

The program sends representatives from the Sheriff’s Department to elderly housing establishments and senior centers to hand out booklets on senior safety and create the ID cards. The ID cards include a photo of the cardholder and information such as his or her name, address, medical history, and an emergency contact. The cards are instrumental in an emergency when the holder is unable to communicate important medical information to responders.

“I’m really happy to be back in the community with the ID program,” said Heather McNeil, who runs the Elderly ID program for the Sheriff’s Department. “Sheriff Cabral is always striving to enhance public safety, and the ID program is a great way to do it.”

This month, McNeil will bring the Elderly ID Program to the Chelsea Senior Center, the Green House in Chelsea, Cheraton Grove in West Roxbury, the Smith House in Boston, and the St. Helena House in the South End.

Lily Briguglio, Senior Advocate for the City of Chelsea is pleased to know that the Senior ID Program is running again. She has worked with the Sheriff’s Department in the past and knows the program well. “The seniors are really excited about the program,” she said. “It makes them feel safe. I am just so thankful that Sheriff Cabral has extended this service to us.”

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