BankSouth originally intended to announce the presentation of donations checks from the Law Enforcement Appreciation Picnic and thank the community for their participation in the event, however, in light of the recent tragedy in Putnam County, we are asking the community to continue their support of our local law enforcement.  Through July 1st, BankSouth is committing to match every dollar donated up to $10,000 to be given directly to the families of Officer Monica and Officer Billue. Donations can be made at any BankSouth branch with cash or check.
 
“Our community is deeply saddened by this tragedy.  It is a reminder that our safety is not guaranteed and that we owe incredible gratitude to the men and women that put themselves at risk every day.  I encourage all that can give to acknowledge the sacrifices being made by donating to help these families directly.  We will continue to pray for the victims and their families and want to do what we can to help them cope with their loss,” said Harold Reynolds, chairman and CEO, BankSouth.
 
This recent event further magnifies the importance of the community’s participation in the Greene County Law Enforcement Appreciation Picnic. On April 22nd BankSouth, Reynolds Lake Oconee, and The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Oconee hosted a community picnic to honor and support all law enforcement officers.  Over 400 people were in attendance and the event raised approximately $40,000 for GA-C.O.P.S. and Greene County Safe and Secure.  In October 2016, BankSouth and the Oconee County community also hosted a Law Enforcement Appreciation Picnic and raised over $50,000 for GA-C.O.P.S.
 
On May 23rd, BankSouth presented a $20,000 donation check to Tammy Gilstrap and Sheriff Scott Berry of GA-C.O.P.S. at the Watkinsville branch.  GA-C.O.P.S. has reached out to the Georgia Department of Corrections and made them aware of survivor programs that will be made available to the Monica and Billue families at no charge.  On June 7th, a $20,000 donation check was also presented to Charles Middleton of Greene County Safe and Secure at the BankSouth Lake Oconee branch.  Greene County Safe and Secure was extremely grateful for the community support of their organization and is exploring using the donation to purchase drones and thermal imaging goggles to further equip their team.
 
“We would like to thank the Greene County community for coming out to support our local law enforcement, and recent events clearly heighten the awareness of this great cause.  The picnic was a wonderful event filled with family fun, and, most importantly, we were able to come together as a community to give back to those that protect us on a daily basis. It was an honor to present these checks and hear about the positive impact that the donations will make for these organizations,” said Reynolds.