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What is CHIP?

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC CHILD IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM

The possibility of a child becoming lost or separated from parents for an extended time could cause many sleepless nights. The Masonic Chip program is the most comprehensive service of its kind, providing parents with identifying information they would need in the event their child ever goes missing. It is provided free of any charge to all participants. It also provides an opportunity to educate our children on safe practices, which will reduce the risk of prolonged separation.

CHIP consists of:

1. a digital still photo and digital video interview - Children are asked series of questions to provide information in front of a height chart backdrop. The CHIP interview captures the appearance, speech, mannerisms, and other important personal characteristics of a child. It can be quickly distributed via the media to reach a huge audience and assist in the quick recovery of a missing child. (The picture and video are recorded onto a 3" mini-CD, compatible with the Pennsylvania Amber Alert System, and given to parent or guardian). It is the cornerstone of CHIP.

2. Fingerprints - Children's fingerprints are taken using a non-toxic ink. Fingerprint card are given to the parent or guardian.

3. DNA - A DNA kit is provided to the parent or guardian to be completed at home. The DNA kit includes envelopes for a. hair samples, 2. nail clippings, and 3. an oral swab for saliva sample.

All identification materials are given to the parent or guardian. No copies are kept or given to any individual, organization or government agency. The registration/permission form is the only documentation kept by CHIP, and is never given to anyone else for any reason.

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