Posted May 27, 2022
Chief Deputy Chris Smoot, Sheriff John Hardy, and Heroes’ Corner Volunteer Shiloh Altieri
A group of Granville County residents seeking a tangible method of honoring law enforcement officers along with other first responders have installed a “Heroes’ Corner” shelf at the Granville County Law Enforcement Center. The goal of Heroes’ Corner is to provide a consistent show of appreciation for law enforcement from the community with snacks and quick grab-and-go meals, as well as providing an avenue for officers to submit prayer requests or share concerns with Heroes’ Corner volunteers.
Members of the Granville County Board of Commissioners along with representatives from the Sheriff’s Office and County Administration gathered to dedicate the shelf on May 25. Chip Fudge and Hannah Altieri, two Heroes’ Corner volunteers, thanked law enforcement for their service and spoke about how grateful they were for the opportunity to connect with and serve the Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff John Hardy reported that the shelves are already “well utilized” since their installation two weeks prior and reiterated how much it means to his deputies to know that the community is thinking about them and their safety.
Commissioner, and former Granville County Sheriff, David Smith, along with Commissioners Zelodis Jay and Russ May attended the event and spoke about the lives of service that employees of the Sheriff’s Office have dedicated themselves to. Commissioner Smith remarked on the feeling of comfort he, and other residents of Granville County have, knowing that a Sheriff’s Deputy or a police officer will be there to help no matter who in the community is in a moment of crisis. “These deputies and police officers are our heroes in Granville County. I can’t think of a better way to describe them,” said Commissioner Smith.
In addition to the Heroes’ Corner at the Law Enforcement Center, the organization previously installed shelves at the Oxford Police Department and the Oxford Fire Department. The shelves are stocked with snacks, drinks, and quick meals for officers to enjoy during their busy shifts that often leave little time for a regular meal break. A prayer/comment box is also installed for officers to request snack items that would make their time at work more enjoyable, and more importantly, give them the opportunity to request prayers from volunteers for their health and safety. Heroes’ Corner volunteer Chip Fudge reported that this locked private box has also been an avenue for officers and firefighters to share concerns with his organization that these first responders have about themselves, their families, or the community at-large. Fudge stated that Heroes’ Corner welcomes all comments and prayer requests, and they can be submitted anonymously if desired.
For more information about Heroes’ Corner, please visit their page on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Heroes-Corner-104973942067800.