Hawaii County Wallet Card Project

Helping People with Disabilities Communicate with First Responders

The HCWCP customized wallet cards will be for people living with disabilities, or caregivers of people living with disabilities. It will include a wallet card available after a short training on the safe use of the card in situations involving First Responders.

We will also develop a training program for law enforcement/first responders, and a program for schools/organizations to bring this project into the classroom.

This will provide a free communication tool for teenagers and adults who have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or an Intellectual or Developmental Disability. The card will help a person safely and quickly disclose their disability to the police/first responder.

Wallet Card Frequently Asked Questions: (FAQs)

Can I get a card now?

Not yet. This project is still being developed. The cards are not yet available to the public. We have provided a sign-up sheet and invite you to sign up for updates. We plan to have the project ready to go by the end of 2024.

Do I need to complete a training to get a card?

Yes, the training will explain how to safely use the wallet card. It is very important to get the training before you use the card.

Will this card keep me from getting arrested?

No, if you break the law, you may be arrested. The purpose of this card is to clarify any misunderstanding you might have with the police because of your disability. It is NOT a “get out of jail free” card .

Will a police officer know that I have a wallet card?

No, the police officer does not know if you have a wallet card. You will need to ask permission to show the officer your wallet card or an officer may ask you if you have one.

Is this card an ID Card?

No, this will not be an ID Card. It is not meant to replace any state or government identification card

Can I add medical information to the request?

No, this is not a medical alert card. This is a tool to help a person with a disability communicate with the police. We will not put medications or medical information on the card.

Can I have more than one card?

No, we will issue one card per person.

Can I donate to support this project?

Absolutely, we would love a donation to help cover the costs associated with this project. Donations should go to ASDC info below, or online at https://asdchawaii.org/donations/

Can I have a card if I have a different disability?

No, not right now. We may expand the project in the future and to add more disabilities

How can I contact you with my suggestions?

See contact info below. We would love to hear from you.

Can I bring this project to my community?

Absolutely, we would love to share this project with you in your local community. We will even have a training that we can share with you.

Autism Support and Disabilities Center, Inc.

PO Box 11185
Hilo, HI 96721

ASDCbigisland@outlook.com

rxlarkin@yahoo.com

Julia Althoff, Julia.althoff@doh.hawaii.gov