Over 5 years ago, my wife Gloria and I would round up gifts for the shelters and then bring the kids to make the donation and walk the dogs. We loved being able to help but it was a very small effort for such a huge problem. We decided to make it a give back event for the police department and see if we could unite the community in a common cause. Fast forward 5 years and Operation Bark Drop 2018 has seen its biggest and best year! Residents of West Windsor, Local Businesses, friends, family, township employees, officers and their families all donated in any way they could to help these wonderful dogs and cats. Slowly the office space filled and then spilled down the hall until finally, the entire hallway was filled. Everyone gave and gave and along the way we had the chance to bond with our community and make new friends. We had photo ops with our K9’s and had the chance to see more of our community and spend time really talking and sharing all our proud and sad moments. We learned that all of us faced hardship and pain in 2018 but we still had a common bond of our love for the animals and how they deserved so much.
Now began the task of sorting and grouping which Gloria has taken on year after year. This year she had help from our oldest which was quite the eye opener for him. After several Advil and a chiropractic visit (Thanks Dr Mark) the job was done and the donations were ready for Elf Team Six.
Then, the day came! We activated Elf Team Six, our elite team of donation expert officers and local volunteers. All year they trained for the world famous Paw Brigade which expedites the exact precision placement of hundreds of donations into a single area (In truth we never practiced). We proceeded to SAVE, A Friend to Homeless Animals and met with Heather. Elf Team Six sprang into action and then spent time visiting with the furry ones.
From there, we trekked over to EASEL Animal Rescue League and filled the shelter. We again visited with the amazing friends up for adoption and whispered to them that Santa had not forgotten them and they were truly all good boys and girls..
Lastly we headed back to West Windsor and visited Stephanie at @APAW. Paw Brigade in full action for a third time. Team members straining from the weight of the 40 pound bags of dog food but continuing on. Again, a moment to visit and pet and hold.
Our Elite Team returned to HQ exhausted but fulfilled. Each and every dog and cat knew Santa loved them and the dream of one day, maybe soon, of finding a home could actually come true. If so many peopled cared so much then there is still hope for a family who felt the same. We all wish we had homes for them in each of our bags but at least we gave them the comfort of home while they wait for you to come and get them!!!
This was the 5th year for Operation Bark Drop and the amount of kindness and compassion and generosity from our residents has energized me and my officers for another year! We knew West Windsor residents and businesses were caring and loving but this goes beyond proving that in every way!
Elf Team Six Members & Contributors, Lt’s Fow, Lee, Sgt’s Bal, McMahon, Det’s Jelinski, Bill Jones, Jason Jones, Officers, Nagy, LaTorre, Collins, Latham, Positively Purfect, Montgomery, K9’s Cherno, Mackey, Aftermath, Homeland Heroes USA, Mercer County Chiefs of Police, G, Camille, Kathia, JoAnn, Jeanine, Sharon, Sierra, Stacey Collins, Ken, Sara, Joe, Amanda, Omar, Whitney, Connor, Tracy, Ewing K9 JAX, Walmart, Doris Dix, Tina, Mike, Cam, Sean, Dan, Jordan, John, Marlena, Dawn, Stacey, Joyce, Mrs H, Hilary, Christine, Sydney Albert, (The three people I forgot) –special thanks to PBA #271 and their constant commitment to the community. Your generosity, donations and member participation is never ending. Sgt Bal & Paula for the use of your trailer (We needed two this year). My wife – for never giving up on the furry ones (365 Days a Year).
I personally thank each and every one of you! You are all amazing!
Chief Robert Garofalo
