Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley meets with tornado survivors Jan. 23, 2011, near Birmingham, Ala. (Photo courtesy of Al.gov)

“When a killer tornado devastated Rutherford County in 2009, volunteers outside the county pitched in to help,” said Lisa Marchesoni, public information officer for the Sheriff’s Office, in a press release. “Now, Sheriff’s Office’s Explorer Post 106 wants to return the favor.”

Explorers are collecting nonperishable food, canned food and toiletries for the residents of Center Point, Ala., which is about 10 miles north of Birmingham, who were devastated by Monday's tornado, said Cpl. Scot Appleton, an Explorer’s Post advisor.

Rutherford County residents are also invited to donate gift cards.

“I learned they were hard hit by the tornado,” Appleton said, explaining the group will coordinate donations with the Center Point Police Department.

People who wish to contribute may leave the items at the Sheriff’s Office’s lobby between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at 940 New Salem Highway.

“I think it would be a good thing for the Explorer Post to help out another law enforcement agency,” Appleton said. “I think it’s a good idea to set an example for these kids to help others out.”

For more information, contact co-advisors Andy Pugh at 615-427-2220, Jerry Buchanan at 615-390-9964 or Appleton at 615-306-5414.