The District of Columbia Child Identification Program (C.H.I.P.)

 

What is C.H.I.P.?
 
C.H.I.P. is a comprehensive child identification program that is offered by the Freemasons of Washington D.C. free of charge.  All of the collected data is given to child’s family. The only information that is kept by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington D.C. is a record that your child is participating in the program
 
What is Included?
  • A DNA Kit which includes:
    • envelopes for hair samples
    • nail clippings
    • an oral swap for a saliva sample
  • A Fingerprint Card of a computer scanned fingerprint of your child.
  • CD with audio and a 35 mm digital picture with audio.
 
What exactly is on the CD?
 
The CD contains a picture and an interview of your child. The interview is designed to capture the appearance, speech, mannerisms, and any other important characteristics of your child. It can be quickly distributed to the media in order to assist in the quick recovery of your child.
 
Why should I partake in this program?
 
Every year, over One Million Children are reported missing. This program is aimed at quickly recovering your child and also educating your child on safety rules in regards to strangers.
 
Does C.H.I.P. also work on preventing crime?
 
Yes, C.H.I.P. is extremely proactive in crime prevention associations at all levels. The crime prevention associations include practitioners from all levels of law enforcement, businesses, schools, and community leaders.
 
Does the program have any further recommendations?
 
The program recommends that you re-enforce safety rules on a regular basis and to encourage your child to practice making emergency 911 calls.
 
 
 
How do I sign my child up?
 
You can sign your child up if your local school is holding a C.H.I.P. Event; your community is holding an event or someone you know has invited you to an event they have sponsored.
 
 
Can I sponsor a C.H.I.P. Event?
 
Yes, all you need to do is contact the Grand Lodge. You can call the office at 202-686-1811 or send an e-mail to grandlodge@dcgrandloge.org