Today (Aug. 15) marks six months until Mardi Gras Day and the Krewe of Hermes marked the occasion with significant donations to two of the NOPD’s most visible units along the parade routes.
At a press conference held this morning the New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation (NOPJF) announced the donations and officially kicked off the annual Adopt-A-Cop fundraiser.
Thanks to Hermes BTP, JC is the newest member of the NOPD Mounted Unit. Named for BTP founder Jimmy Coleman, JC is the third horse the krewe has donated to the police department. Hermes BTP also donated horses JJ and Hermes.
In addition to the new horsepower, Hermes BTP also made a donation to the NOPD’s Motorcycle Unit. The philanthropic organization donated 45 units of Blauer all-weather outwear for the motorcycle officers. Not only does the gear protect motorcycle officers from rainy and cold weather but it is highly reflective. Blauer’s technology allows it to utilize a form of glass to give the outerwear a superior reflective capability that almost creates a 3-D effect.
“Working in the roadway makes high visibility crucial to the safety of our Traffic Division officers,” said Melanie Talia, CEO of the New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation (NOPJF). “Outfitting them with Blauer outerwear will not only ensure high visibility, but it will also keep our officers warm, dry, comfortable, and looking great.”
The NOPJF also kicked off their annual Adopt-A-Cop fundraising program today. Adopt-A-Cop raises funds to purchase meals for NOPD officers during the long shifts that come with Carnival season each year. The majority of officers work 12-hour shifts in the city’s eight police districts, and those on the parade routes work shifts of at least eight hours.
“Adopt-A-Cop’s Mardi Gras Support provides our Krewe in Blue with much needed hot meals, healthy snacks, and beverages to enjoy during the long days and nights of Mardi Gras,” added Talia. “There would be no purple, green and gold without the blue!”
Supporters can make donations of $10 or more on the NOPJF website: http://nopjf.org/adopt-a-cop.