New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
A Grinch may have tried to steal Christmas from an 82-year-old New Bedford woman but the kindness shown by New Bedford Police Officer Jason Viera kept the holiday spirit alive and strong for her and her family.
A few weeks ago, Officer Viera, who works out of station 2 in the south end, responded to a call regarding an 82-year-old woman who had a shipment of steak and shrimp stolen from her door. She told Officer Viera that she was very disappointed because she and her son were looking forward to a special steak and shrimp dinner.
Officer Viera told the heartbroken woman that he would file a report and would return with a report number for her the next day.
He brought more than the report number. He also delivered a gift card for Stop & Shop along with a note saying that he hoped she and her son would enjoy their dinner.
Officer Viera did this without mentioning it to his colleagues or expecting any recognition in return. We at the New Bedford Police Department only learned of his generous gesture when her granddaughter posted it on social media.
To thank Officer Viera for his act of kindness, The New Bedford Police Department is hosting a ceremony at 9 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at police headquarters, 871 Rockdale Ave.
We are so proud of Officer Viera. He is one of many officers who routinely perform acts of kindness without recognition but with a sense of compassion and civic pride.
“Officer Viera did not have to do this, but out of the kindness of his heart, he did,’’ the woman’s granddaughter, Samantha Laubenstein, wrote. “This gesture touched my heart and hers as well.’’
Chief Joseph Cordeiro said Officer Viera represents the hard work and compassion displayed by the entire New Bedford Police Department.
“I am extremely proud of Officer Jason Viera and his charitable spirit,’’ Chief Cordeiro said. “His actions and good-heartedness are a reflection of all our officers.’’
We hope you will attend to share with your audience a positive holiday story that perfectly reflects the spirit of the season.
Thank you Officer Viera!!