The Pender County Library System, in partnership with the Pender County Sheriff’s Office, is excited to host the launch of Hurricane Helpers, a customized children’s picture book integrated into the Sheriff’s School Resource Officer and Community Engagement programs. This initiative marks a groundbreaking first in American law enforcement, as Pender County becomes the only sheriff’s office in the nation to incorporate a tailored children’s book into its community outreach efforts.

Authored by Pender County resident James Burd Brewster and illustrated by Sergio Drumond, Hurricane Helpers tells the inspiring story of five Pender County Deputies who aided Mitchell County residents in recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. The book’s unique approach features the actual Pender County deputies illustrated as characters in the story, adding authenticity and relatability. Designed as a giveaway for elementary school visits, the book showcases deputies as true public servants and includes engaging activities and coloring pages, along with Pender County Sheriff’s Office information and safety tips.

Sheriff Alan Cutler emphasized the book’s role in building community trust, stating, “This book is a powerful tool to connect with our youth, showing them that our deputies are here to serve and protect while inspiring engagement and trust.” The Sheriff’s Office aims to distribute Hurricane Helpers to all 3,300 elementary school students in Pender County public schools, with additional copies needed for private school children and community events such as the Spot Festival and Blueberry Festival.

The Pender County Library System will host two public book launches and reading events, where Sheriff Alan Cutler will personally read Hurricane Helpers to children:

• Hampstead Branch Library: September 16, 2025, at 4:30 PM
• Main Library in Burgaw: September 17, 2025, at 4:00 PM

These events are open to the public, and the five deputies featured in the book will be present to sign copies for attendees. Each child attending the readings will receive a free copy of Hurricane Helpers and will have the opportunity to engage with the book’s activity pages during the event. The readings provide a unique opportunity for families to connect with the Sheriff’s Office and celebrate the community spirit embodied in Hurricane Helpers.

The creation, illustration, and publishing of Hurricane Helpers were generously donated by J2B Publishing, Brewster’s publishing company. Local businesses and organizations have sponsored the printing of 500 copies of the book, ensuring its availability for Pender County’s children. The Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to the following sponsors: Burgaw Lions Club, Burry Chocolates, Surf City Rotary Club, Hampstead Hardware, and Burrito Shack. The Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking additional sponsors to fund the printing of the remaining 3,500 copies needed to reach all children in the community.

For more information about the Hurricane Helpers program, the upcoming library readings, or sponsorship opportunities, please contact the Pender County Sheriff’s Office at 910-259-1212.