Local law enforcement agencies will present a program on Thursday, Nov. 14, to provide seniors with practical tips on how to deal with panhandlers.
The program will be presented at 11 a.m. at the Ballou Recreation Center, 760 West Main St. Reservations are not required, but seniors are encouraged to reserve a seat by calling the center at 434-799-5216.
“With the holiday season being a time of giving, you may see more people than usual asking for donations,” said Deputy Joe Martin of the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office. “Seniors are especially prone to be taken advantage of, so we will share ways for seniors to stay safe by teaching them how to avoid panhandlers, and if approached, then how to handle the situation.”
Joining Martin will be representatives of the Danville Sheriff’s Office and Danville Police Department.
The presentation is part of an ongoing series of programs sponsored by the Danville-Pittsylvania County Triad chapter. The chapter seeks to reduce the fear of crime and victimization among seniors by connecting them with law enforcement agencies and community organizations with resources for older adults. Programs cover a range of topics, from credit card fraud to violent crimes. The local chapter is a collaboration between the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, Southern Area Agency on Aging, Danville Parks and Recreation, Danville Police Department, Danville Sheriff’s Office, and Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office.