A group of fourth- and fifth-graders at Booker T. Washington Academy painted a toy box for less fortunate children at the suggestion of Officer Chris Townsend, who is active in the school’s mentoring program.
“We thought it would mean more if young students made the boxes, and it’s an opportunity for kids to give back,” said Townsend, director of Law Enforcement in Fayette County Public Schools.
Townsend is a member of the Southern Bluegrass Citizen Review Panel, which is part of a statewide network that monitors child-protective services. As his group replaced tattered furniture at the Department for Community-Based Services facility on Centre Parkway, they decided to add wooden toy boxes in the four small visitation rooms. One box went to the Mayor’s Youth Council, two to a local church and one to Booker T. Washington for students to decorate.
The BTW youngsters opted for a blue box with brightly colored figures on each side; the top is a chalkboard so children can draw and write on it. Art teacher Virginia Miller helped with the design and finishing touches. The school also donated chalk and erasers.
“The kids were humbled by this experience and really worked hard on it,” said social worker Shericka Smith. “They truly brought the box to life.”
Townsend delivered the finished toy box May 17, thanks to the efforts of Kimarion Booker, William Cliett, Antares Price, Marika Allen and Justin Carter.
“I was happy to do it because I’m happy to help other people,” Antares said.
“We helped kids that don’t stay with their parents,” William added. “I think the kids will be happy because it’s one of the special things they probably have.”
Did you know?
May 12-18 is National Police Week.