Every day, law enforcement and social service agencies deal with stressful situations involving children who require special care to comfort them and make them feel safe.

In March, members of the Southeast Chapter of the Alabama Power Service Organization reached out to agencies about placing bins in the company’s Eufaula and Valley business offices to collect stuffed animals to comfort children.

“Due to COVID-19 limitations, we’ve been unable to volunteer in person and serve our communities at the level we desire, and this project is an example of the creative ways we’ve continued our mission while upholding safety guidelines,” said Laurel Crawford, communications lead at Plant Farley and president of the Southeast APSO chapter.

It was Southeast APSO’s first collection drive for this purpose. Organization members thought it would be a great way to involve customers in a time when community service opportunities are limited but needs are great.

Stuffed animals collected by the Southeast Chapter of the Alabama Power Service Organization were turned over to the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office and the Eufaula Police Department to be given to children going through stressful situations. Additional toys will be given to the Chambers County Department of Human Resources. (contributed)(contributed)

Members of the Southeast Division Chapter of the Alabama Power Service Organization deliver stuffed animals to Valley Police Department. From left, Giselle Barrett, Officer William Gamper, Lisa Roberts, Sgt. Michael Meacham, Corporal Lorenzo Harris. (contributed)

“It’s been wonderful to have the support of the Alabama Power Service Organization for our program we call Comfort for Kids,” said Barbour County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Shelsea Rickman. “Our goal is to give children something physical that they can hold onto and bring comfort to them during a stressful situation. Sometimes it’s the small things that make a big difference.”

The Eufaula collection drive ended March 30 with 38 stuffed animals collected. The toys were presented to the Eufaula Police Department and Barbour County Sheriff’s Office on April 7.

The Valley collection drive continues until April 30, and donations can be made by visiting that office at 32 Fob James Drive. The toys will be presented to the Chambers County Department of Human Resources to be used by local law enforcement.

“APSO’s mission is to create positive change and strengthen the communities we call home, and we’re proud of what we accomplish through the work of our volunteers and community partners,” Crawford said. “APSO seeks every opportunity to support the emotional and educational success of our children and promote their positive development and growth.”