The Columbus County Adopt-A-Deputy program is actually two separate events this year.
Kelly Greene Davis is coordinating the local effort to recognize deputies and detention officers. She said Correctional Officer Week is May 2-8, and Police Officer Week is May 9-15. Both weeks are set aside as national times to honor and remember law enforcement officers as well as those working in jails and prisons.
Neither program is an official function of the sheriff’s office.
Davis said that at the request of the sheriff, Detention Officer and Police Officer weeks will be observed separately this year. She organized the programs to help recognize law enforcement officers for their service to the community.
Volunteers can purchase a $10 gift or gift card and drop the surprise off at Show Ridez or Freeman Chiropractic in Whiteville. Davis asked that anyone interested in helping contact her via the Columbus County Adopt-A-Deputy page on Facebook to sign up for a specific officer.
“We still have some who need adopting,” Davis said.
Presents for Detention Officers should be dropped off by May 3. Those for deputies have until May 10. The gifts will be distributed May 6 and May 10, respectively.
“These guys and girls appreciate the gifts and words of encouragement,” Davis said.
