Attorney General James Uthmeier Launches Statewide Initiative to Support Crime Victims’ Children
Photo courtesy of the Office of the Attorney General
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that Walmart pledged $100,000 in financial and in-kind support the statewide expansion of Bexley Boxes—comfort kits filled with essential items for young children impacted by crime. Bexley Boxes provide law enforcement agencies with resources such as diapers, formula, sippy cups, toys, and stuffed animals to care for traumatized children.
“In Florida, protecting our kids is the number one priority,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “I am proud to support the Bridegan Foundation’s mission to support children who experience violent crime and grateful to Walmart for stepping up to ensure Bexley Boxes will be available statewide.”
“The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office was honored to receive Bexley Box #7 three years ago,” said St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick. “The box is filled with toys, clothes, snacks, and other much needed items that bring comfort to children who have been victimized by crime in our community. We are grateful to Kirsten Bridegan and the Bridegan Foundation for their partnership and the positive impact the Bexley Box initiative has made in Northeast Florida and communities nationwide.”
“Established in response to an unimaginable tragedy, the Bexley Box represents compassion, comfort, and care for children facing some of the most frightening moments of their lives,” said Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma. “I am grateful for the leadership and support of Sheriff Rob Hardwick, Attorney General James Uthmeier, Walmart, and the Bridegan family in bringing this partnership to life. This collaboration will have a real and lasting impact across Florida, and Florida’s sheriffs are proud to stand together in carrying this mission forward.”
“This February, our Bexley Boxes will achieve statewide placement in Florida thanks to the support of Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, Walmart, and the agencies, volunteers, donors, and students who believe in our mission to provide comfort to the smallest of victims,” said Bridegan Foundation founder Kirsten Bridegan. “In just three and a half years, more than 65 Bexley Boxes have been placed, and by the end of February that number will be more than double with at least one Bexley Box placed in every county and municipal law enforcement agency in Florida. This milestone is only the beginning. We will continue refilling boxes as needed and expanding the program nationwide through partnerships to ensure these critical resources reach communities where they are needed most.”
“Walmart works every day to help families live better, and that includes helping during some of the most difficult moments they might face,” said Abby Belobraydic, Regional Vice President at Walmart. “Our donation to support Bexley Boxes in Florida will helpprovide much-needed care and comfort to children affected by crime. We’re proud to stand alongside the Bridegan Foundation, the Florida Attorney General and law enforcement across the state to support the communities we serve in this special way.”
In 2022, Kirsten’s young daughter Bexley spent hours at a police station after she witnessed the traumatic murder of her father, Jared Bridegan. Officers tried their best to comfort Bexley, but they had limited supplies on hand. The incident inspired Kirsten to form the Bridegan Foundation. Bexley Boxes have been distributed to several Florida agencies and 11 other states.
In March 2025, Attorney General Uthmeier presented Kirsten with the Back the Blue Award to recognize her commitment to supporting law enforcement and protecting children in crisis.
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