UPDATE: Nearly 300 Terrell County students received essential school supplies during the “Badges & Backpacks” event held on July 29, 2023. Organized by the Terrell County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with the Department of Public Health and the South Georgia Starz Academy, the event aimed to equip students for a successful school year.
Just before the new school year commenced on July 31, this transformative event provided not only backpacks but also a wealth of resources, including food and mental health services. Terrell County Sheriff Vernon Jessie emphasized the importance of giving back to the community. “This event is about giving back to the community,” he stated, highlighting it as part of his initiative when he took office.
The festive atmosphere included music, games, and food, with Sheriff Jessie flipping burgers and hotdogs for attendees. Kiva Hall, executive director of Starz Academy, noted the event is vital for raising awareness in a rural area where resources are limited. “Dawson is a rural community where resources are very scarce,” Hall explained.
Beyond the free school supplies, the event featured vendors promoting mental health and wellness resources, including access to counseling and the 988 suicide and crisis hotline. In a significant move towards promoting a drug-free environment, over 110 students signed a pledge to remain drug-free within the first two hours of the event. Public health analyst Phyllis Rolle stressed the need for awareness regarding current drug issues, including the fentanyl crisis.
Local parent Melissa Reese voiced her support for such community-driven initiatives, stating, “There is a strong need for events like this. Events like these keep them out of the streets. It’s good for the community.” Reese’s daughter, a rising 10th grader, benefited from the free backpack and supplies.
The Terrell County Sheriff’s Office distributed 300 free backpacks filled with essential school supplies, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on families. As many students typically travel to Albany for supplies, this initiative provides much-needed assistance right in their community.
Sheriff Jessie and Hall confirmed that more events like “Badges & Backpacks” are planned throughout the school year. As schools prepare to reopen, safety remains a top priority. For the first time, a full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) will be stationed in schools, ensuring safety for students, teachers, and staff. The SRO will work at least eight hours a day and oversee security during school events.
Sheriff Jessie encourages parents to support their children as they head back to school, advising them to provide positive affirmations. “Let them know they are smart, they are amazing, they are beautiful,” he said, reinforcing the importance of student confidence.
As the school year kicks off, events like “Badges & Backpacks” not only provide necessary supplies but also foster community spirit and support, ensuring a brighter future for Terrell County students.
