Rolesville plan helps elderly, disabled through storms

Bruce Perkinson moved to Rolesville in 1947. Much of her family and support systems have moved away, forcing her to weather storms as best she can.

“Sometimes your family can’t get there to do it for you,” Perkins said.

The 91-year-old has learned that she can no longer battle inclement weather alone. Now, Rolesville city leaders have developed a plan to help residents just like her.

“If it’s snowing or sleeting and they can’t get out and they’ve got something and they need medicine, call the police department, call the mayor. I’ve got four-wheel drive,” said Rolesville Mayor Frank Eagles.

Eagles said that, during inclement weather, the police department will call elderly and disabled residents and will stop by their homes if they do not get an answer.

The initiative began several years ago, but now the police chief is giving it a new push.

“Our thing with this is trying to reach out to the people that maybe we don’t know that have just moved here,” said Eagles.

From cleaning up storm-ravaged yards to flooded basements, the town of Rolesville is committed to making house calls. It’s a small-town effort, and the value of a visit could make the difference for residents like Perkinson.

“It makes me feel really good. I think somebody else cares about me then,” said Perkinson.

Rolesville residents who would like to be added to the check-in list should contact the police department at 919-556-7226.