During the Savannah City Council meeting on November 7, 2024, a significant initiative aimed at enhancing child safety and awareness of human trafficking was introduced. Major Ben Herron of the Savannah Police Department, along with other law enforcement officials, presented a partnership with the National Child ID Program and the NFL, designed to equip parents with essential tools to protect their children.

The program addresses the alarming statistic that approximately 1,000 children go missing each day in the United States. Major Herron emphasized the importance of providing parents with identification kits that include spaces for fingerprints, DNA samples, and current photographs of their children. This information can be crucial for law enforcement in the unfortunate event that a child goes missing.

The initiative not only targets children but also aims to assist vulnerable elderly individuals, particularly those suffering from dementia. The kits will be available at various police precincts and community events, ensuring accessibility for all families in the region. The program has already seen a positive response, with plans to distribute additional kits, including Spanish-language versions to better serve the Hispanic community.

Chief Gunther highlighted the critical need for such resources, noting that many families lack up-to-date information about their children, which can hinder search efforts. The kits are provided free of charge, reinforcing the program's commitment to public safety without financial barriers.

In addition to the child ID initiative, council members discussed the potential for a new program that would feature cold cases on playing cards, aimed at raising awareness and generating leads on unresolved crimes. This innovative approach could engage the community in solving cases that have long remained open.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s proactive stance on public safety and community engagement, with a focus on protecting its most vulnerable residents. As these initiatives roll out, they promise to foster a safer environment for families in Savannah and surrounding areas.