NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — School resource officers are pitching in to help with meal distributions at Metro Nashville schools.
"This was the perfect opportunity for us because we get a chance to see our kids," said Sgt. Bonita Blue.
Sgt. Blue oversees school resource officers in the northeast quadrant of Nashville.
Instead of reassigning officers during the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped find a way for SROs to still connect with students. Every day of the week, officers are handing out snacks, toiletries and books to families at schools around the city, including Madison Middle School.
"They're getting a chance to run into and meet new kids and they are getting a chance to see some of their kids that they haven't seen since school's out," said Sgt. Blue.
Sgt. Blue wants families to know SROs can be their resource during this uncertain time.
"When you are faced with a crisis, you think about food, but you never think about the little things. We're not trying to put anybody down. This is something to help you through the week or through the day," she said.
Getting a chance to see the students is also good for the officers' morale.
"When you are connected with your kids and you are used to seeing them everyday, sometimes you get a little sad and disappointed because you miss seeing their smiling faces, checking on them, making sure they have everything they need. Our kids are very important to us. For some of my officers, this means the world to them," she said.
If you want to make a donation to the Metro Police Department's emergency youth closet call 615-880-3010.
