The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) recently provided assistance to a member of the corrections family following an unimaginable tragedy.

Officer ReNyea Russell, who serves with the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, lost her two young children in a devastating house fire that occurred early on the morning of February 14 in Sandersville, Georgia.

According to local officials, emergency crews from several surrounding fire departments responded to a mobile home fire on Oak Meadow Circle around 4:30 a.m. Despite their efforts, Russell’s children—Christian Jackson, 7, and Maliyah Russell, 4—tragically lost their lives.

Christian was remembered by his school community as a bright second-grade student whose smile could light up a room. His grandmother described him as “the best big brother ever,” someone who loved giving hugs and telling people he loved them. Maliyah, a Head Start Pre-K student, was described as a joyful little girl who loved to dance and sing, especially the song “Yes, Jesus Loves Me.”

In the wake of this heartbreaking loss, members of the corrections community stepped forward to support Officer Russell and her family. CPOF representatives recently met with Officer Russell to present assistance on behalf of the Foundation and the thousands of correctional professionals across the country who stand behind its mission.

The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation was founded by correctional officers to ensure that when tragedy strikes, those who serve behind the walls are not left to face it alone. Through its catastrophic assistance program, CPOF provides financial support and resources to correctional professionals and their families during times of crisis, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and devastating personal loss.

While no amount of assistance can ease the pain of such a profound loss, the Foundation hopes that the support provided by the corrections community will serve as a reminder that Officer Russell and her family are not alone.

CPOF extends its deepest condolences to Officer Russell, her family, and the entire Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice community during this incredibly difficult time.

If you or someone you know in the corrections profession is experiencing a catastrophic event, assistance may be available through the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation.