By Michele Taranto

It can be heartbreaking to hear. Someone has to give up a member of their pet family due to financial or hardship constraints or an unexpected setback. The volunteers, and specifically CAPI founder and President Kandi Finch, have stepped up to try to assist their owners in order to keep beloved pet. 

The name of this newly formed non-profit organization is Charley’s Angels Pet Initiative (CAPI). Based right here in Norwood, the goal and mission of the group is simply: keep families and pets together through hard times. This will hopefully be done initially with donations of pet food and accessories through food pantry bins; long term, assistance with medical expenses, and much more. CAPI is definitely a moving force. Volunteers will also reach out and relationships with local Councils on Agings, housing authorities, and rescues/shelters to provide direct, personal assistance.

“It breaks my heart every time I hear about someone having to surrender rehome, or euthanize their pet because they cannot afford to keep it,” Finch said. “I feel that the people who need a pet the most might not be able to afford to have one.”

While CAPI is a register 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization run exclusively by volunteers, they are not your typical animal group and are filling a very specific and needed niche in pet ownership. 

“We are not a rescue,” Finch said. “We are here to help support anyone trying to keep pets and their humans together. We will partner with any agency, clinic, veterinarian, ACO (Animal Control Officer), or shelter where we can to help.”

While CAPI is just in its infancy stage, the idea has been swirling in Finch’s head for quite some time. For the past few years, she has been known to transport small, hurt wildlife across the state for either rehabilitation or medical care. This is her chance to bring it home and help family pets.

“I am doing this for my love of animals,” Finch said. “I have been thinking about it for several years and decided after talking to like-minded friends, to stop talking and do it. Way too much sad news about animals in the news lately.”

Many may relate to the Charley’s Angels reference to the tv show of days past, but the name of the organization has a much deeper meaning to Finch. 

“I rescued my dog Charley in August of 2016,” Finch said. Over the years, I have noticed how gentle he is. He seems to know when he is around people who are challenged in any way, whether it’s wheelchairs, cane/crutches. He is also sensitive to seniors. He is training to be a therapy dog; he already achieved his Canine Good Citizens certification.

When I was trying to think of a name it occurred to me that (a little cheeky) he is an angel and hopefully he will be helping us to help other animals who are in need. What a better name than Charleys’ Angels? These angels come in 2 and 4 legged versions.”

CAPI will initiate its assistance in Norwood, Westwood, Walpole, and Canton, but that list will hopefully grow throughout most of Norfolk County.

CAPI is currently accepting donations in the form of food, toys, blankets, bowls, etc, in addition to direct monetary and gift cards. Right now, their service is limited to dogs and cats, but who knows for the future?

“I don’t foresee anything we cannot do with the help of our communities,” Finch said. “I have had a vision from food pantries to training to needed grooming, nail clipping, K9 vests and so so much more. Please help us- there is definitely a need for this - I hope you can help.”

Volunteers are also very welcome to help join in the cause. For more information on donating or volunteering, visit CAPI’s website at www.charleysangelspetinitiative.org. CAPI will also have a table at the Norwood Farmers Market Pet Dat, Tuesday, July 11, 2-4 p.m. Charlie will even be there with some of his friends.