Three recent, separate donations to the city of Bogalusa for three different projects prove that the giving spirit is thriving in the financially needy town. Cherie and Bryan Genco provided a heat and cooling system for the small animal shelter. Dodi Browett made a donation to the police department. And Lowell Hall prompted a donation of family and friends to Cassidy Park.

The Gencos were the first recent donors.

Cherie Genco, who describes herself and her husband as “true animal lovers,” said she noticed a need at the Bogalusa Animal Control shelter when temperatures dipped in December.

“I thought, wow, why the couldn’t BAC have a heat/air unit installed,” she said.

When she told Bryan her idea, he told her to “check into getting it done.”

“So, I contacted Kay Kay (Varnado, Mayor Wendy Perrette’s administrative assistant) and she talked to the mayor,” Genco said. “It was approved a few weeks later. I then went to Sears and purchased the unit.

“Sadly, our city does not have the proper facility that these animals need. Year after year, people would donate blankets. They would get torn up or soiled. The volunteers would have to wash them.

“We need a new facility that can house these animals. It should be a priority. Magnolia Chapter does everything they can to provide for all these animals. They give their hearts and their personal time, to see to it, that these animals are provided for. Magnolia volunteers do so much, everyday, for all of those poor, helpless, animals.”

Genco said she and Bryan wish that more people would get involved.

“Every little bit helps,” she said. “It just amazes us how people mistreat animals. People do not realize how important it is to spay and neuter. It’s heartbreaking to see an animal starving, hurt, tied to a tree, tied up with no shelter, homeless, mothers trying to save their babies, or keep them from freezing to death. How can a human being let this happen?

“If you see an animal in need, please help them. It’s not their fault that their owners were not responsible. If you are unable to help them yourself, call and report it.

“The BAC is always in need of items. If you can help, please do so. The animals are so grateful. Animals need love, too.”

Animal Control Officer David Kellis said he appreciates the Gencos’ donation.

“I think it’s admirable that they were that concerned about the animals,” he said. “We’ve just got to seal up some holes before we turn the air conditioner on.”

Kellis added that a 4H group made a donation of dog food, shampoo, treats, blankets and similar items on Friday, as well.

For stories on the other recent donations to the city, see the Friday edition and weekend edition of The Daily News.