CHEEKTOWAGA – Cheektowaga Police officers and their family members gathered outside police headquarters Monday afternoon to present a check to the Badge of Honor Association.
The group raised $7,180.00 through a Fallen Heroes Softball Tournament.
“That’s amazing for a one-day softball tournament,” said Lt. Jim Koch of the Town of Hamburg Police Department and Manager of the Erie County Badge of Honor Association.
The tournament was organized by Police Officer Eric Jakubowicz and his wife, Courtney.
“She and a lot of the other police wives were a very integral part of running it. We decided to go with the Badge of Honor just because it’s a local association that gives to local law enforcement, and we figured that would be good to keep it in the community,” said Mr. Jakubowicz.
The organization was founded in 2007 and focuses on supporting the families of Police Officers in the event of a line of duty death, and those officers involved in critical or severe incidents while on duty. The organization covers all law enforcement agencies across the 25 counties of Western and Central New York.
“Through donations like this, we’re able to sponsor events and provide financial resources to officer’s families that are in need, and the children of fallen officers,” said Mr. Koch.
The organization provides support to officers involved in critical incidents by donating financially to the officers as well as provides a network of support that brings awareness, counseling, education, and recognition to the officers involved. Additionally, they offer gift certificates, weekend getaways, and other methods to assist the officer and their family during difficult times.
They also support children of fallen officers in Western and Central New York through events including an annual weekend retreat for families and the Badge of Honor’s Shop with a Cop program for children during the holidays.
Mr. Jakubowicz is happy with the amount of money the event raised and is looking forward to partnering with the organization to continue local fundraising efforts.
“We definitely plan on doing it next year and for the years to come,” added Mr. Jakubowicz.
The organization is a 501(3)(c) not-for-profit and accepts donations through their website. Members of the public can also show their support of the group by shopping at their online store.