Partnering with the Eatonton Housing Authority, Mothers Against Crime (MAC) hosted a “free yard sale” July 30, at the Montgomery Homes Pavilion, providing free back-to-school supplies and gently used clothing to more than 20 school-age kids and several of their younger brothers and sisters.
“It’s all about giving back,” MAC founder and event organizer Georgia Benjamin-Smith said. “We try to give back because we believe in a connection between the parents, the schools, law enforcement, the churches, and it works perfect.”
Also in attendance were Eatonton Police Chief Howell Cardwell, along with several of his department’s officers, members of the Eatonton Fire Department, and Mikesha Kailee Reid, head of the Young People Department at St. John’s AME Church.
Cardwell spoke to the children about how modern-day policing is not just about arresting people and giving out traffic tickets. He encouraged them not to hesitate in approaching an officer if they need help and not to be afraid if one visits their neighborhood.
Similarly, shortly before allowing the kids to climb up and sit behind the wheel of their firetruck, firefighter Tim Epps and partner Matt Kitchens spoke to an attentive audience about what to do if they’re ever in a situation where emergency services show up.
“Don’t be afraid of us, we’re here to help you. If you’re ever in a fire or any other emergency and you see us there, just come to us. Don’t run, don’t hide,” Epps stressed.
Reid concentrated on encouraging students to stay in school, work hard on their studies and take advantage of the opportunities an education can bring.
Meanwhile, Benjamin-Smith managed the crowd of children with the tact and tenacity of a veteran schoolmarm, demanding their attention and nipping any misbehavior in the bud. Meanwhile, she suggested parents adopt a “village approach” to continue the task.
“If you see a neighbor’s child doing wrong, say something,” she said. “It’s up to all of us to teach these children right.
“When I look around, I see future policemen, future firemen, maybe a professional athlete, maybe a doctor, maybe even a lawyer,” Benjamin-Smith told the crowd, being met with a few lighthearted boos at her last suggestion. “Everything is available to you if you really want it.”
The event concluded with free hotdogs, chips, cookies and drinks served up by several members of Mothers Against Crime.
“Please keep us in mind,” Benjamin-Smith later asked of the Eatonton community at large. “We could use some more members because I have worked what we have about to death. And never mind the name, we love having men join us.”