Press Release:

Club President Becky Hollis and Board Member Ann Tucker of the Independent Telecommunications Pioneers Association (ITPA), Big Bend Club, donated several large bags of stuffed teddy bears and other stuffed animals to the Wakulla County Sheriff's Office Wednesday, March 10.

The ITPA Club collects stuffed animals through donations throughout the year in an effort to provide a comforting gift for deputy sheriffs to give to children who are frightened during investigations.

The club consists of active and retired employees and their spouses of CenturyLink and Verizon Wireless of the Big Bend region.

Club members participate in various community service and charity functions to collect the stuffed animals to enhance the quality of life for area residents.

Major Larry Massa of the Community Services Unit said the donated animals would be placed in patrol vehicles for distribution. Any left over animals will be saved for the holidays to be given away to the less fortunate at Christmas.

"This will come in handy," said Sheriff David Harvey of the donation. Tucker and Hollis said their club has also donated stuff animals to law enforcement in Leon County.
"We collect the stuffed animals throughout the year so that they can be given to children who really need them," Hollis said.