World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is Tuesday, June 15. 

Elder Victim Ministry, a program of Crime Victim Services, will provide Put up Your Guard against Scams packets in area agencies serving the elder population. The program is funded by a Cares Act grant.     

The packets include a grocery bag, pen, notepad and a scam tips card to place by the phone or refrigerator. 

A fierce tiger image helps remind persons:
• Do not respond. Scammers want you to send money. If you’re the winner, you don't pay. The IRS will not call you nor will they make threats. Hang up and call your doctor’s office to confirm the call before giving any information. 
• Do not send money. Ask for your grandchild’s full name. Call family members to check. Romance Scams are one of the largest scams happening. Love does not equall money. Get an opinion from others before acting. Make a police report if you think you are being scammed.

Since the pandemic began, Elder Victim Ministry has seen an increase in the following crimes:
• domestic violence
• threats to health and safety (menacing, violation of protection order), and
• monetary crimes (scams, identity theft).  

If you or someone you know is being victimized, report it to a law enforcement agent.

Crime Victim Services can help persons prevail over traumas of a victimization in  safety, healing and legal and financial recovery. 

Its services are free. Contact Elysia Bush, Elder Victim Ministry director at [email protected], 419-222-8666 or 1-877-867-7273.