Community Corner
How To Help Coventry Police Win A $12K Grant For K-9 Jovie
The contest is being run by the Hometown Foundation, a nonprofit which helps deserving law enforcement agencies and their K-9 units.
COVENTRY, RI — Coventry police have entered a contest to win a $12,000 grant to support their comfort therapy K-9 Jovie.
The contest is being run by the Hometown Foundation and goes until Feb. 28. The Hometown Foundation helps "deserving law enforcement agencies and their K-9 units who have embodied the principles of honor, respect, pride and demonstrated compassion for their community."
To win the grant, Jovie needs votes from the public.
Jovie, who works alongside School Resource Officer Jadine Ferri, is also working towards search and rescue certification.
Find out what's happening in Coventryfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Like most therapy dog programs in police departments, Jovie's program is run strictly off donations and is not budgeted. Coventry police said all money would go towards the health and wellbeing of Jovie as well as any food, equipment or medical expenses she may need in her lifetime.
"K-9 Jovie is essential to the Coventry Police Department because she has a profound positive impact on both officers and our community," a Coventry police spokesperson said. "Jovie helps alleviate the emotional strain that often comes with law enforcement work, such as exposure to trauma, high-stress situations, and the emotional toll of handling difficult cases. Officers interact with Jovie to reduce anxiety, improve mental health, and cope with stress in a healthy way."
Find out what's happening in Coventryfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"Additionally, K-9 Jovie is used to support victims and witnesses during interviews, especially in cases involving trauma or sensitive subjects like child abuse or domestic violence," police added. "Jovie's presence creates a calmer, more supportive environment, allowing for more open communication and healing. By enhancing officer well-being and aiding in community relations, Jovie plays an essential role in fostering a more compassionate and effective police department as well."
Jovie can be voted for here until 11:59 p.m. Friday. The first vote is free, while each additional vote requires a $10 donation to the Hometown Foundation.
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