The Warren County Regional Jail staff launched a campaign this week that is expected to benefit several charitable agencies.

Warren County Jailer Stephen Harmon provided $1,000 of seed money split evenly among the jail’s five shifts.

Each shift has an organization that will benefit from funds raised by the jail staff between now and just before Christmas.

Traditionally, jail employees have come together one day during the holiday season for a catered meal, but Harmon saw a way for the staff to make more of a difference in the community.

“None of us need a plate of food when I could take this $1,000 and get something bigger started,” Harmon said. “The people who work their shifts have determined which organization they want to support between now and the end of the year and they’ve really taken this and personalized it.”

The different shifts have come up with creative ways to raise funds to benefit their selected organizations.

Employees in one shift are paying a fee to dress down at work, Harmon said.

Agencies that have been selected to receive funds include Toys for Tots/Home Instead’s “Be a Santa to a Senior” program, Barren River Area Safe Space, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Angel Tree Prison Ministry and the Bowling Green VA Clinic.

The jail has done charitable drives in the past, but this year’s holiday campaign represents a new approach to fundraising, Harmon said.

“I’m hoping this can be a first annual one we can build on for years to come,” Harmon said.

Members of the public can also make donations, and anyone interested in doing so can contact jail staff between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at 270-843-4606 and bring their donations to the jail’s front office.

– Follow courts reporter Justin Story on Twitter @jstorydailynews or visit bgdailynews.com.