08-04-2025
Fremont police first to adopt emergency system for autistic residents
(KRON) — The Fremont Police Department announced Monday that it is the first agency to implement an emergency alert system to try and better help people with autism or developmental disabilities. Code Joshua, authorities said, will help first responders in emergency situations 'recognize, respond to, and safely approach individuals on the autism spectrum.'
The alert system was the creation of the nonprofit foundation Joshua's Gift. According to the foundation, Code Joshua 'allows families to voluntarily submit detailed information about their loved ones' specific behaviors, characteristics, and needs.'
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There are 175 families in Fremont that are expected to voluntarily enroll, Joshua's Gift said.
Fremont dispatchers who receive a call regarding an individual exhibiting autism or intellectual developmental disability-related behavior can access the new database to retrieve the person's profile.
Cofounders of Joshua's Gift, Kerry Rich and Mizpah Brown-Rich, said that as parents of an autistic child, they have 'personally experienced the fear and anxiety that comes with these situations.'
'Through personalized insights, training, and this new alert system, our secure, confidential platform empowers first responders to interact in ways that prioritize dignity, respect, and safety for everyone involved,' the cofounders continued.
Fremont police said voluntary registration can be completed on the Joshua's Gift website.
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