SOUTHWICK – Initially reported by the Westfield News on July 18 that the Southwick Police was seeking donations for a new K-9 dog, one individual responded in quite the generous way.
As a result of seeing the article, Southwick resident Jack Jeneral walked into Chief David Ricardi’s office and presented him with an $8,000 check, which is the approximate cost for a department to acquire a K-9.
Speechless about the act, Ricardi couldn’t say enough about Jeneral; a guy he has been acquainted with in town for years.
“He’s a true gentleman,” said Ricardi. “He’s got a big heart.”
Southwick resident Jack Jeneral wrote out an $8,000 check to the Southwick Police Department for a new K-9 dog. (Photo courtesy of Southwick Police Department)
After reading the story on July 18, Jeneral said that he tried to set up a time right away to meet with Ricardi. Living in Southwick for around 20 years, Jeneral saw this as an opportunity to assist his community.
“It’s nice to be able to do something for the town, especially for the cops who are always putting their lives on the line,” said Jeneral.
Although Ricardi was certainly ecstatic about the news, Jeneral believes he may have been more excited than the guy receiving it.
“Believe me, I felt better than Dave (Ricardi) did,” said Jeneral. “I felt great giving him the check.”
Ricardi noted that a number of other individuals have donated to the K-9 fund and appreciates their unselfish efforts.
Despite the $8,000 check giving the department a great chance to buy a new K-9 dog, Ricardi said that they still need more donations from people to deal with the other associated costs.
According to Ricardi, for the K-9 program, the department looks at it as a three-year plan. They still need money to cover K-9 trainings, dog kennel costs, and dog food among other things over a long period of time, not just for a few months or even a year.
If you want to donate to the Southwick Police K-9 unit, checks can be made payable to the Southwick Police Department K-9 fund and can be dropped off at the department on 11 Depot St. or mailed to.
For further information or questions, call Ricardi at 413-569-5348, ext. 606.
