Sheriff Dauzat Unveils APSO Project V.I.P. to Support Seniors

Sheriff David L. Dauzat has announced the launch of APSO Project V.I.P., which stands for Vulnerable and Independent Persons, a new program designed to help keep seniors in Avoyelles Parish safe and prepared in their own homes.

The Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office is able to bring this initiative to the community thanks to a grant from the Central Louisiana Community Foundation. The program is also supported through partnerships with the American Red Cross and Walmart in Marksville, which are providing life-saving supplies and resources to help make the project a success.

What Is Project V.I.P.

Project V.I.P. is a completely free service for seniors in Avoyelles Parish. A deputy from APSO’s Support Services Division or Patrol Division will conduct a home visit to help ensure participants are safe and prepared for emergencies.

What Participants Receive

During the visit, deputies will provide safety guidance along with a comprehensive safety package that includes:

• A V.I.P. Emergency Kit containing emergency contact information forms, a medications and medical history card, and a special V.I.P. sticker for the participant’s door to notify first responders that the resident is part of the program.
• A Red Cross Safety Packet to assist with creating a home fire escape plan, along with a fire safety checklist, a new smoke alarm, and other essential safety supplies.

Sheriff Dauzat emphasized the importance of the program for the parish’s senior population.

“Our seniors are the heart of Avoyelles Parish, and this program is all about looking out for them,” Dauzat said. “I am so thankful for the Central Louisiana Community Foundation for providing the grant to make APSO Project V.I.P. happen. A big thank you also goes to the American Red Cross and Walmart for their partnership and supplies. Working together like this lets us offer real, practical help to our seniors, right in their own homes.”

Registration Information

Enrollment in APSO Project V.I.P. will be offered on a first come, first served basis and will continue until all funding and supplies are exhausted. Seniors and their families are encouraged to register as soon as possible.

To register or refer a senior, visit the following link:

Register Here
Residents may also visit the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office at 675 Government Street in Marksville for additional information.

For emergencies, always dial 911. For non-emergencies, contact the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318 253 4000 or email info@AvoyellesSO.org.