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New children’s book highlights deputies’ role in Hurricane Helene recovery
BURGAW, NC (WWAY) — Wednesday afternoon the main library in Burgaw hosted a reading celebrating a unique new children’s book.
Hurricane Helpers is a story about five Pender County deputies who went to western North Carolina to help with recovery efforts after hurricane Helene last year. Sheriff Alan Cutler read the book and the children who attended got a free copy. They also had an opportunity to ask questions and to get their book signed by the deputies. Author James Brewster says a year ago he approached Sheriff Cutler with the idea, and they decided to move forward with the project.
Brewster added it helps teach kids about law enforcement and to develop a community bond with first responders.
“They’re the good guys; they helped out in a big way. So, the story shows that. Every time a teacher or a parent reads the book to their child it reinforces that Pender County deputies are nice guys, they help out,” Brewster said.
The Burgaw Lions Club recognized the Pender County Sheriff’s Office for their service specifically for the response efforts from Hurricane Helene. The club will annually recognize September 17th as ‘Hurricane Helpers Day’.