Safe Return Program

Every second counts when a child or adult with special needs goes missing — and families shouldn’t face that fear alone.

The ATA Lopez Foundation is proud to introduce the Safe Return Program; a new initiative designed to support families and strengthen community response for individuals with disabilities who may wander or elope.

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Why We Created This Program

As a mother of three medically complex children with different disabilities, I understand the fear that comes with wandering or elopement — it can happen in an instant.
Preparation, communication, and community collaboration can make all the difference.

While no outcome can ever be guaranteed, the Safe Return Program helps families by enabling faster, more coordinated responses if a loved one goes missing.

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Together, We Aim To:

• Provide law enforcement with critical information immediately
• Mobilize trained volunteers to assist in search efforts
• Offer emotional support and guidance to families during crisis situations

We are proud to partner with the United Cajun Navy to strengthen community response efforts.
Preparation and swift action save lives — and together, we can make a difference.

Expand the Impact

With the support of donors, sponsors, and community partners, we aim to expand this program to provide even greater protection and peace of mind.
Future goals include:

• Supplying families with ID kits, tracking devices, sensory-friendly gear and more
• Offering specialized training for law enforcement and first responders to better support individuals with a variety of disabilities and sensitivities
• Expanding across parishes and regions to reach families statewide

Your support helps us keep children and adults safe, empower caregivers, and build a more inclusive emergency response network.

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Program Expansion

The Safe Return Program begins in South Louisiana as a pilot initiative, with plans to grow statewide.

Want to bring this program to your community?

Need Assistance?

Have questions or need help registering?
📞 Call us at 225-772-9564
✉️ Email atalopezfoundation@gmail.com

Who Can Enroll

• Families or caregivers of children or adults with autism, developmental, intellectual, or medical disabilities, or anyone with a history of wandering
• Residents of Louisiana 

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How to Register

You’ll need:

• Basic information about your loved one
• Emergency contacts
• Relevant medical or safety concerns
• A recent photo

🔒 Your privacy matters.

All information is voluntary, stored securely, and shared only with verified emergency responders in the event of a crisis.

 Frequently Asked Questions

-Is the program free?
Yes! Thanks to the generosity of our donors and partners, this service is provided at no cost to families.

-Who can access my loved one’s information?
Only the Safe Return team and verified emergency responders — and only in the event of a crisis.

-What happens after I sign up?
We’ll securely store your information and send you a confirmation along with any next steps or updates.