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The Fort Deposit Police Department joined forces with county agencies and town citizens and businesses to sponsor a back-to-school bash held July 27. Food, fun and giveaways provided something for everyone Saturday and included recognition for one public servant for his work to serve the community.

Fort Deposit Police Chief Terry Steiner spearheaded the event and said the goal was to celebrate the end of summer with a fun family activity.

“[People] just came together and made it happen,” Steiner said. “I wanted to give the kids something to do for the summer. I also wanted to see everyone get together and make things happen. The more things we do like this, as a community, the more we can see other things happen.”

The Town of Fort Deposit, Priesters Pecans, the Shell station, the Chevron, Dollar General, Family Dollar, T and G (Keith Bailey), the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department, Judge Adrian Johnson, Heart of the Home as well as Hayneville and White Hall police departments all supported the event with volunteers and supplies.

Longtime Fort Deposit resident Frieda Cross said organizers passed out school supplies to children in attendance.

“With the help of some of our local merchants, we provided school supplies, cooked hotdogs and gave the children something they needed,” Cross said.

Cross said Steiner is known for his community efforts. To recognize his contributions, Cross presented Steiner with a memento, a commendation highlighting his selfless service to the town.

“Chief Steiner works very hard to make our community as good as it can be,” Cross said. “He always works for the good of the community. We are very fortunate to have him.”

The commendation described Steiner’s tireless devotion and expressed the citizens’ appreciation of his service.

“The citizens of Fort Deposit acknowledge with grateful appreciation the love and concern displayed by Chief Terry Steiner in his continuous efforts to provide beneficial, safe and fun activities for the children,” the award read. “Keep on keeping on, Chief!”