Sunday, I had both of my kids packed in the car and we were heading down Blanding Blvd to get some feed from Tractor Supply when the traffic just backed up all of a sudden. Of course, you get annoyed and frustrated, but after awhile we finally made it around the mess and I see the wreckage. I knew it was bad, based on all the news media and the fact Law Enforcement was taking photos instead of clearing the accident for traffic.
My heart broke.
It was Deputy Ben Zirbel with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. I didn’t know the officer. But I knew someone would be notifying his family about the accident. And my heart ached for them.
You see, my father is a retired police officer. My uncle is a police officer. I have cousins that are police officers. Growing up, I always feared that call.
I’m trying not to get to upset, just writing this.
I heard this week he didn’t make it. And I want to do something to help.
“Good works are links that form a chain of love.” – Mother Teresa
So, if you book a session between now and September 15th (you don’t have to do the session until after that date, so perfect for Christmas, just book it by Sept. 15th.) I will donate $100 from each family, pet, newborn and cake smash session to the officer’s family.
If you would prefer to give to the family, they have a GoFundMe account set up. You can go here to help.
Additionally, here are some other law enforcement charities you may want to also consider donating too:
National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund
C.O.P.S which helps families cope with the loss of an officer.
NACOP: The National Association of Chiefs of Police, is right next to NASA, in South Florida and I have worked with them many times in the past. They help families and they also help underfunded departments by basic things like bullet proof vests.
“If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.” – Mother Teresa
If you’d like to create memories of your own family this Fall and help out the family at the same time, please email me at Christy@jaxphotographer.com
Christy Whitehead Photography is dedicated to enriching the lives of their clients through portraits. But we also occasionally partner with different causes, whether it be through donation drives, awareness or donations.
