ROCKINGHAM — The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has received more than $2,500 in donations for its Shop with a Deputy program.
On Monday, Chris and Judy Jackson presented a check for $2,000 to the sheriff’s office to support the effort, according to a social media post.
Chris Jackson, a 24-year veteran patrol officer with the Laurinburg Police Department, is the organizer of the annual Back the Blue Ride.
This year’s ride on Aug. 21, which featured nearly 200 motorcycles and other vehicles, raised more than $12,000 to help fund similar programs in Richmond and Scotland counties.
“Thank you to everyone that contributed to the motorcycle ride to make it such a success and thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Jackson for their dedication to give back to others,” Sheriff Mark Gulledge said.
On Oct. 27, the sheriff’s office received a visit from 8-year-old Emma Watts, who presented Gulledge with $600 to put toward the program.
Watts, a second-grader at Second Baptist Christian Academy and daughter of Sgt. Richard Watts, sold handmade soap over several months to generate the funds, according to a social media post.
“I want to see other kids that may be less fortunate have a great Christmas,” she told the sheriff.
“It’s great to see our youth getting involved for such a great program and it’s amazing to see an 8-year-old be able to raise $600 and then part with it to help others, it's just awesome,” Gulledge said. “It’s also great to see the entire community support something that’s so worthy.”
The program was started last year under the late sheriff James Clemmons and helped around four dozen children.
The department raised around $7,000 through deputies’ participation in the no-shave program and donations from the business community.
Chief Deputy Jay Childers said Thursday that deputies have continued the no-shave fundraiser and the department has also received donations from several local businesses, churches and individuals.
On Oct. 28, RCSO published on social media a warning to residents regarding a solicitation scam:
“These calls are not from anyone associated with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. Our deputies assisting with collecting or soliciting donations will do it in person and will be identifiable as a member of our office.
Please do not fall victim to someone taking advantage of something meant to help others in need. If you feel it is not right and question the person contacting you, feel free to contact our office for verification before giving any information or donations, 910-895-3232.”
Richmond County Sheriff Mark Gulledge gives a high-five to Emma Watts, who raised $600 for the Shop with a Deputy program.
