Ricky Inc.

Ricky Inc. “Being a kind and loving person, I want my kindness to be so strong it’s contagious “ by Nicholas G.

Our Cause
RICKY INC. “Respecting Individuals with Care and Kindness You matter”. We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization providing basic necessities to individuals by distributing backpacks in the Greater Boston area. We reach out to individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use disorder, and mental health concerns. We started this organization in memory of our beloved son Ricky Giacoppo

who passed away from an overdose May of 2019. We carry on Ricky’s legacy of love and compassion through assisting the men and women of our community struggling with the insidious disease of substance use disorder and putting an end to the stigma attached to it. It is our mission to supply individuals with hygiene products as well as an extensive resource manual on where to access help for substance use disorder, homelessness and behavioral health services. Some of the programs we have collaborated with are harm reduction programs, recovery homes, detox programs, mother and child reunification programs, Veteran's Programs, at risk adolescent programs, LGBTQ+ programs and extensive street outreach programming. We provide Narcan (Naloxone) training and distribute Narcan and fentanyl test strips at no charge. Narcan can easily be administered to a person experiencing an overdose. Narcan saves lives and it is our hope to educate people on its life saving abilities and encouraging them to carry Narcan. We provide transportation to Detox programs to those in need. We have started to offer sponsorships to individuals with a financial need to MASH certified Halfway houses that we have developed a relationship with on a small-scale basis. We have a link to Ricky Inc.'s Amazon Wishlist on our website Rickyinc.org. Every donation is appreciated and goes directly to funding the services we provide.

05/25/2026

The seventh year of missing you our Ricky on what is your 42nd Birthday. I thought last night how safe I always felt with you. You were a protector of all you loved. Loyal...always my beautiful boy we miss you more every day 💔we want to share Ricky’s passions in honor of his Birthday.
Ricky was a beautiful baby not just because I’m his mom but because people would say he’s too pretty to be a boy.❤️
He loved to play with his matchbox cars that his grandfather would bring each visit. He loved his little green army men. But most of all he loved his Jammie’s robe blanket and sippy cup while watching Winnie the Pooh.❤️
Ricky loved to read in grammar school he joined a book club. He was involved in many sports but would prefer to be reading.❤️
In middle school he volunteered at MSPCA working mostly with the pit bulls and was asked by Mspca to be in a video to end the stigma around pit bulls being aggressive dangerous dogs. In the video Ricky is hugging, kissing, and rolling in the grass with these beautiful dogs. No job was too menial for Ricky he did it all from cleaning the cages to walking the dogs. He later became a foster family for pets in need. Of course he adopted two of the cats❤️
Ricky was a history buff and joined a civil war round table in middle school with his Dad they made a specific exception for his age. We still have his library on the Civil War. A family trip to Gettysburg was a dream come true for him.❤️
Ricky made friends easily and loved many like family some friends for his lifetime ❤️
Ricky was in four school plays one being the lead part❤️
Ricky joined a morning radio show in 6th grade calling in every morning known as Ricky The Paperboy. We had no idea. Ricky had a quick wit like no other he could of easily done stand up.❤️
Ricky joined PETA in 9th grade and advocated for animals and against the labs that did testing on them. He once wore a Turkey suit over a highway overpass with a sign that read “go Vegan”. He was vegan for a time.❤️
Ricky adored his Dog Lady he called her his therapy pet❤️
Ricky took piano lessons, he was an acolyte at church❤️
Ricky was working on writing his life story❤️
Ricky gave the best hugs he would always press his cheek to yours. Ricky was loyal to all those he loved❤️
Ricky was a self-proclaimed Mama’s Boy❤️
Ricky as an adult would sit for hours with his Dad watching TV laughing Loud I mean really loud the two of them… I loved being in bed and hearing them…I’d say thank you God for having this moment ❤️
Ricky loves his brothers he was loyal and truly felt joy when his brothers excelled or as simple as spending time together laughing and hanging together❤️
Ricky talked often about the family trip to Aruba in his twenties with his brothers and all their crazy fun antics together❤️
Ricky was with his Mum and grandmother in Florida during Hurricane Katrina Ricky was our protector ❤️
Ricky got his dream job at Animal Rescue League as an adoption counselor ❤️
Ricky attended UMASS Boston to be a Substance Use Counselor ❤️
Ricky hoped to one day be a paralegal❤️
As a family we sat together at the kitchen table every night for dinner❤️
We did homework at the dining room table❤️
We built forts❤️
We built bike jumps❤️
We went to Nana and Pa’s every Sunday for family dinner for many years❤️
We went to Sissy’s at the Cape for years, swimming, fishing, making crab traps out of soda bottles (catch and release of course)❤️
We made seashell necklaces and ornaments❤️
We had popcorn Pepsi parties❤️
We read together every night❤️
We went on family trips with Sissy (Grandmother) several which were Disney❤️
Ricky would jump on our bed throughout his life right up to the day before the world changed just to talk or act silly❤️Ricky loved to make us laugh❤️
We had our issues like any family❤️
We love each other each fiercely ❤️
We are a loving family that never ever imagined we would end up here.
We are like you
We are a mother❤️
We are a Father❤️
We are a brother❤️
We are a family that is left to ask why?
Why our beautiful Ricky?
Why God?

Thank you to VA Boston group for this meaningful letter. It means so much to us to support our Veterans facing substance...
05/05/2026

Thank you to VA Boston group for this meaningful letter. It means so much to us to support our Veterans facing substance use disorder, mental health concerns and unhoused.
We will be returning in a few weeks for our spring visit.

Thank you note from the participants at New Joelyn's. We have been visiting this Halfway House for many years and are al...
05/05/2026

Thank you note from the participants at New Joelyn's. We have been visiting this Halfway House for many years and are always met with hope, enthusiasm and appreciation. Thank you to all those that are on their recovery journey for welcoming Ricky Inc into your home. We look forward to seeing you soon for our Spring visit. Thank you for this colorful and meaningful card and your individual thoughts. We are grateful for you. The Ricky Inc. Team

Backpacks from Massachusetts to MaineOn Monday April 6, 2026 I visited the Bradford House in Haverhill, Ma. Upon my arri...
04/15/2026

Backpacks from Massachusetts to Maine
On Monday April 6, 2026 I visited the Bradford House in Haverhill, Ma. Upon my arrival they came out to greet me and helped me to unload the van of their supplies. I think it was the first delivery that I've made where I didn't have to carry anything into the house. Once inside I started to tell them the story of Ricky, Nicholas and what we do at Ricky, Inc.

After speaking with the men of Bradford House for over 30 minutes, we posed for a group photo.

All of these gentlemen were very appreciative of the items that they received and could not have been any more gracious towards me and our organization.

I look forward to visiting Bradford House again, possibly this summer as I accepted House Director Tim Simpson's invitation to a house B-B-Q.

"Thanks guys - Stay Strong"

During my visit with the men, we had a lot of back-and-forth discussion with questions and answers. Many of them were visibly moved by the stories of my family tragedies and how my wife and I started this organization.

Near the end of my talk, David said that the men had collectively written a 2-page testimonial and signed a Thank You card. David also stood in front of the group and read the testimonial aloud to me.

I did everything I could to not openly cry but the tears in my eyes were far too obvious. This was the most moving piece of writing I had ever received and hit so close to home that I was amazed at what I was hearing. It was being read to me with such passion and honesty that it was hard not to be emotional.

The next section presented here is a copy of the exact wording that these humble men had put together. Please take the time to read this; it is extremely well written, poignant, heart breaking and uplifting.

They call themselves

"16 Voices in Recovery"

To the Compassionate Strangers, the Givers, and the Believers,
We are writing this letter not just as 16 individuals, but as one collective voice of survival.
Between the 16 of us, we have lived through decades of darkness. We are sons, fathers, students, teachers, and neighbors. We are also recovering drug addicts and alcoholics.
We wanted to take a moment to put into words something that is often very difficult for us to express: what your charity, your kindness, and your willingness to give back truly means to us. It can be difficult to voice our gratitude, especially when for so long we have felt undeserving, but “little by slow” healing is helping us grow and learn to vocalize our newfound appreciation.
To understand our gratitude, you first have to understand where we came from. We want to be honest with you about what it was really like out there. Addiction is a thief that steals quietly at first, and then all at once. It took our homes, our families, our careers, and eventually, it took our dignity.
Many of us know what it feels like to be entirely invisible. We know the bone-deep chill of sleeping on concrete or in the backseats of cars that didn’t run. Or, very often not sleeping at all… We know the exhaustion of waking up every single day knowing that the next 24 hours would be a brutal, agonizing fight just for basic necessities. We fought for a safe place to close our eyes. We fought for a meal that wasn’t pulled from the trash. We fought the horrific physical withdrawals of a disease that told us we needed our substance more than we needed oxygen.
When you are living on the street, consumed by alcoholism or drug addiction, the world becomes a very cold place, void of empathy… Society often looks right through you, or worse, looks at you with disgust, we’ve felt the harsh sting the stigma of disease brings with it. You begin to believe that you are exactly what the world tells you that you are: worthless, a lost cause, a moral failure. You stop believing you deserve a warm bed, a hot meal, or a second chance.
But then there was you. CHARITY used to be just a word we heard around the holidays, but for us, charity became a literal lifeline. Charity wasn’t a check written to an organization; it was the pair of dry, wool socks handed to us in the freezing rain. It was the hot cup of coffee given with a smile instead of a sneer. It was the bed at the treatment center that we couldn’t afford, but that was fully funded by people who never even knew our names.
When we had absolutely nothing to offer in return – when we were at our most broken, unlovable, and desperate – people like you stepped up.
We are so profoundly grateful that people still exist who are willing to give back to those struggling with the disease of addiction. You understand something that most of the world still struggles to grasp; addiction is a disease, not a moral failing. It rewires the brain and breaks the spirit.
By continuing to donate, volunteer, and support recovery programs, you are actively saying that our lives are still worth saving.

You are saying that our past does not have to dictate our future.
Because of the grace and charity of others, the 16 of us are clean and sober today.

Today, we aren’t fighting for survival on the streets, we are fighting for our recovery. We are holding down jobs, making amends to the families we hurt, and learning how to live life on life’s terms. We are piecing our dignity back together, OND DAY AT A TIME. And, as we heal, we are learning to extend that same charity to the next person walking through the doors of recovery, broken and terrified, just like we were.

You didn’t just help feed us or shelter us, you bought us TIME. You bought us the time we needed to get our minds clear to choose life.

Thank you for not giving up on us when we had given up on ourselves.

Thank you for your generosity, your empathy, and your unrelenting belief in the power of redemption. We will spend the rest of our lives paying it forward.

With the deepest, most profound gratitude,

"16 Voices in Recovery"
------------------------------------------------------------

On Monday March 2, 2026 I visited the Milestone Recovery Center in Portland Maine.

Ricky, Inc delivered 36 filled backpacks along with numerous extra supplies including Bombas socks, cases of hand warmers, cases of hygiene products, men's and women's underwear and art supplies for the Nicholas Giacoppo Memorial Bureau

The Nicholas Giacoppo Memorial Bureau is accessible to all clients of Milestone Recovery and is filled with art supplies in memory of Nick's incredible talent as an artist.

The framed picture above the bureau is an original print "hand drawn" by Nicholas in 2022. There are two more of Nick's framed prints on display inside of the resident's area.

Nick loved working with Milestone as part of his duties as our Maine - Street Outreach Coordinator. He loved distributing backpacks and always asked for more.
MILESTONE RECOVERY

Amy Chaney of Milestone Recovery happily accepts that many items that we donated to their organization.

Milestone has many different functions and operates a residential facility, Detox and has a mobile Street Outreach program. Many of our backpacks will be distributed by the Street Outreach team that Nick used to work closely with (Nick pictured with Street Outreach Team).

04/10/2026

We would like to thank all those that attended "Humor for Humanity with Jimmy Tingle and Friends". The evening couldn't have been more of success than it was and for that we thank all that attended.
We would like to say Ricky Inc. stands for being present with a nonjudgemental listening ear to all people, supporting, and respecting all peoples facing homelessness, substance use disorder, and mental health concerns. People facing these life-threatening issues come from all walks of life and all are treated with love and respect. Ricky Inc stands with the LGBTQ+, and all communities and in no way at any time accepts any derogative language or disrespectful "jokes" towards any community including jokes of antisemitism, xenophobia and LBGTQ. We will not be associated with this type of what is presented as "humor" because it is not it is bigotry. If not stated, we would be complicit and that is not the Ricky Inc way. It is "Respecting Individual with Care and Kindness You matter."
This does not in any way take away from the wonderful people that attended and enjoyed the evening and the humor and enjoying those comedians that provided you that. We want to especially thank Jimmy Tingle the evening would not have been possible without his support. He is a wonderful man and friend. We are grateful to Norwood theater and their great staff. We are so grateful for you and the love and laughter that was clearly present throughout the evening.
Ricky Inc. is an all-volunteer nonprofit and the monies from last evening will go directly to the most vulnerable and those most in need through our backpack program, free rides to detox and other related appointments, our Narcan program, and our support program offering information on housing programs, scholarship programs, detox, CSS, sober homes, halfway houses, and more. We are not experts, but we have listened ears and a wealth of information to share with those that need a person to just be there for them.
Again, thank you for such a successful evening that gave you a night out filled with laughter. Sincerely, the Ricky Inc Team with love
Please keep an eye out for a letter we received...it's a bit of a long read but may give you a better understanding of the people we strive to support and help.

ATTENTION: TICKETS FOR GENERAL ADMISSION MAY BE BOUGHT AT THE DOOR ON THE EVENING OF THE SHOW.On Thursday April 9, 2026,...
03/27/2026

ATTENTION: TICKETS FOR GENERAL ADMISSION MAY BE BOUGHT AT THE DOOR ON THE EVENING OF THE SHOW.

On Thursday April 9, 2026, Ricky, Inc. will be hosting a Comedy Show Fundraiser to benefit our nonprofits mission of helping those suffering from homelessness, substance use disorder and mental health concerns. The show will feature Boston's most celebrated comedians, Lenny Clarke, Steve Sweeney and hosted by Jimmy Tingle..

I made a late winter drop off on 3/5 to PAATHS Program and AHPOPE with some supplies to help with these last weeks of Wi...
03/09/2026

I made a late winter drop off on 3/5 to PAATHS Program and AHPOPE with some supplies to help with these last weeks of Winter. Below is a description of their services. Please confirm times of operation before visiting either of these programs.

"PAATHS PROGRAM” Providing Access to Addictions Treatment, Hope and Support
TREATMENT PROGRAMS
We can help you get access to treatment programs, including:
detox and CSS/TSS programs
medication assisted treatment and
outpatient treatment programs.
We also connect clients to overdose prevention and risk reduction services. There are many paths to recovery. Let us help you find yours.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Eligibility is simple. We serve any individual or family from the Greater Boston area in need of information related to substance use, regardless of insurance status.
We have Spanish speaking staff available, and we can also help with transportation.
PAATHS WALK-IN HOURS
The program is located at 774 Albany Street, 1st floor, Boston, MA 02118. Please call (857) 507-1279 for more information. We offer services on a first-come, first-served basis. Please arrive early to make sure you can speak to us:
LOCATION DAY HOURS
774 Albany Street
Monday
7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
774 Albany Street
Tuesday
7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
774 Albany Street
Wednesday
7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
(On the first and third Wednesday of the month, we're closed from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.)
774 Albany Street
Thursday
7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
774 Albany Street
Friday
7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
774 Albany Street
Saturday
CLOSED
774 Albany Street”
“AHOPE PROGRAM”
AHOPE can be reached at 617-534-3976
Access, Harm Reduction, Overdose Prevention and Education (AHOPE) is a harm reduction and needle exchange site.
We provide a range of service to active injection drug users, including:
integrated HIV, Hepatitis, and STI testing
free, legal, and anonymous needle exchange
supported referrals to HIV, Hepatitis, STI treatment, and medical help.
overdose prevention education and training
risk reduction supplies to reduce the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C infection
risk reduction counseling, and
referrals to all kinds of substance use treatment programs.
RECOVERY SERVICES
617-534-3976
WALK-IN AND MOBILE VAN SERVICES
AHOPE services are available at the walk-in center at 774 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118:
LOCATION DAY HOURS
774 Albany Street
Monday
7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
(Closed for lunch from 12 - 1 p.m.)
774 Albany Street
Tuesday
7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
(Closed for lunch from 12 - 1 p.m.)
774 Albany Street
Wednesday
7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
(Closed for lunch from 12 - 1 p.m.)
774 Albany Street
Thursday
7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
(Closed for lunch from 12 - 1 p.m.)
774 Albany Street
Friday
7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
(Closed for lunch from 12 - 1 p.m.)
774 Albany Street
Saturday
Closed
774 Albany Street
Sunday
Closed
The Community Care in Reach van is staffed by both AHOPE outreach workers and medical providers from Health Care for the Homeless. It provides the following services:
ADDICTION SERVICES:
Medications for addiction treatment and referrals to opioid treatment programs and in-patient detox
HARM REDUCTION:
Naloxone, overdose prevention education, risk reduction counseling, and syringe exchange
PREVENTIVE CARE:
Screenings, immunizations, chronic disease management (including hypertension, diabetes, HIV treatment)
Referrals to behavioral health, hepatitis C treatment, specialty medical care, and other services based on patient needs and preferences
LOCATION DAY HOURS
Haverhill Street
Monday
8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Nubian Square
Monday
12:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Nubian Square
Wednesday
12:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Haverhill Street
Thursday
12:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.

I visited Access - Drug User Health Program on Thursday 3/5 to bring out some late winter supplies. Please call ahead t...
03/09/2026

I visited Access - Drug User Health Program on Thursday 3/5 to bring out some late winter supplies. Please call ahead to confirm hours of operation.

Access in addition to harm reduction services the program as of since 2021 has expanded to offer additional services. In addition to needle exchange, harm reduction supplies, and Narcan they are conducting HIV/HCV/STI testing again. And there is now a weekly medical clinic as well as walk in behavioral health services. And many other services.
It is always such a pleasure to visit ACCESS. Brian and his staff are kind and welcoming to us. They take the time to hear about Ricky, Inc. Brian gives us a tour of the program which they recently renovated the space where the clients come in. I tried to post the video, but it didn't come through, and he updates us on any new services they are now offering. If you are in need of these services they are located at 359 Green Street, Cambridge. Hours of operation:
Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm
Saturday and Sunday closed
phone 617-599-0246

Address

PO Box 213
East Walpole, MA
02032

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 12pm

Telephone

+17817276628

Website

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