POUGHKEEPSIE – The men and women of the City of Poughkeepsie PBA pitched in to help victims of breast cancer on Thursday. Several officers, including three of the department’s females, gathered at police headquarters to present a $1,000 donation to Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation.
The donation was made at the suggestion of Sergeant Joe Ciardi. “A breast cancer diagnosis already causes stress for victims. Having to deal with the diagnosis and treatment without the added financial burdens that arise should not be placed on the patient. Miles of Hope helps local patients, and our members are supporting their efforts,” said Ciardi.
Miles of Hope Executive Director Pari Farood was joined by board treasurer Brian Powers at headquarters to accept the check. Calling it a “generous” contribution, Farood praised the men and women of the department for their support. “This particular donation will help to defray bills and finances for people in treatment for breast cancer.” She said the money will be put to use locally, in the nine counties of the Hudson Valley, to provide assistance with gas, food, transportation, rent, mortgages, and other bills that pile up as a patient goes through treatment.
Farood called a breast cancer diagnosis “an increased financial burden” that her organization helps to ease.
“Our members are more than just police officers,” said PBA President Kevin Van Wagner. “We are vested members of the community that we serve and we continuously help organizations that help those in need. Organizations like Miles for Hope and Dutchess Outreach help people that need it, much like we do. We are building stronger bonds by working with organizations that help our community.”
