HOULKA - For the second year, the Free Mason of John S. McCain Lodge in Houlka are offering parents peace of mind through a free child identification program.

The MS CHIP program was first offered in Chickasaw County in 2009 by the Houlka Masons and over 200 children received identification kits.

The identification kits are designed to assist law enforcement in the event that a child is missing. Along with fingerprinting and videotaping, children's dental impressions are recorded and identifying information specific to the child is noted.

Children, accompanied by parents, move along several stations to complete the sections of the packet, which is presented to parents for safe keeping. The entire procedure is free to all interested parents who wish to help safeguard their children.

The Houlka Masons will host the MS CHIP event on Saturday, Jan. 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Houlka Community Center on Hwy. 32 West. For more information on MS CHIP, call 601-270-5027.