Donations taken to help Deer Park family

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ala. (WALA) - Bags of clothing, groceries, and other items have been dropped off at the 911 Communications building in Chatom since the plea for help when out over the weekend.

The relief effort started because of the Box family tragedy.

Jean Box and her two young sons were killed Friday when a tornado picked up their mobile home and slammed it into a tree.

Washington County Sheriff Richard Stringer said people are also bringing donations to the sheriff's office in the court house.

"We've had a tremendous response. We've had quite a few calls today," the sheriff said.

The father, Greg Box, was injured, along with his daughter Taylor and family friend Sheldon Driver.

Greg is facing a huge responsibility when he gets out of the hospital, and Sheriff Stringer is trying to make sure he gets some help.

"I don't want the family to come out and have that burden on them when they're trying to recover," Sheriff Stringer said.

The sheriff has appointed a four-member committee to determine the greatest needs in the county. Right now, however, the priority is the Box family funerals.

"Talking with the funeral director at Freeman, he's informed me that he's giving a $5,000 discount for the two teenagers, and he will still be looking at $15-to-$16,000 to bury the three," Sheriff Stringer said.

An account has been set up by the sheriff's office at First Community Bank.

As the family told FOX10 over the weekend, any help is appreciated.

"It's very important, because when you don't have anything left, anything is a help, anything," Linda Smith said.

If you would like to help the Box family with burial expenses, you can make a donation and any First Community Bank branch.

You can also take your donation to the sheriff's Office or the 911 Communications Building on Hearn Drive in Chatom.