More than 100 people came out to the McCarthy Family Estate Vineyard, in the Los Gatos mountains for “A Taste of Los Gatos,” a fundraiser to benefit the
According to Foundation President, the money raised will fund critical police services in the two towns.
“As a nonprofit organization, we exist to provide equipment and services to the department that are not normally in the budget,” Knowles said.
Some of the services that the foundation provides is underwater diving equipment, undercover wiring and technology and DUI checkpoint relief.
An important service that the Foundation provides is the “Cops for Kids” program, where Los Gatos-Monte Sereno police and Foundation board members serve lunch at Los Gatos elementary schools.
The Foundation also provides coupons for ice cream and frozen yogurt for children who wear a helmet when biking around town.
“This program is important because it helps kids understand that the police are good guys,” Knowles said. “It’s positive reinforcement for doing the right thing.”
According to Knowles, the Foundation raises about $75,000 annually for police services and equipment.
The event showcased delicious-tasting wine and brews provided by Joe McCarthy Vineyards, , and
The "tastes" enjoyed by attendeed came from several Los Gatos favorites such as , , , , , , Billy's Boston Chowder House, , , , , Rootstock Wine Bar, and .
The police department also had a police scuba diver giving live demonstrations in the house pool while several officers were in the yard hosting a shooting range for willing participants.
expressed his gratitude for the Foundation’s support.
“We so value the direct support of our community through the foundation,” Seaman said. “Community donations have completely supported our K-9 unit, allows us to purchase specialized equipment that we use for critical investigations and provides funds for innovative community programs such as the ice cream coupons for kids who wear a helmet when they’re out riding their bikes.”
Many attendees have joined the foundation with a donation of $500 and received two tickets to attend the event. Some, who are not foundation members, purchased a $150 ticket to attend and support the local department.
Donations, which are tax deductible, are encouraged. The public can send their contribution through checks or money orders (do not send cash) to: The Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Foundation, P.O. Box 973, Los Gatos, CA 9503.
All proceeds from Sunday's event directly support the foundation.
