News from Pets of the Homeless Issue 31

Providing Pet Food & Veterinary Care

Issue 31 ~~ February 2011

Greetings!

Every day we receive sad accounts from those who are homeless or on the edge of homelessness. It is our mission to help provide pet food and veterinary care for the pets of those living on the streets.

Your support has been awe-inspiring.

The following statistics prove that our work is far from over.

The National Coalition for the Homeless reported:

880 acts of violence committed towards the homeless resulted in 244 deaths
3.5 million Americans are homeless
730,000 in the HUD Homeless Support Service Network (23% are children)
100,000 homeless veterans in the VA Support Network

AARP - Databank USA:

598,983 year-round beds for the homeless in America

These disturbing numbers reflect the economy, joblessness, and lack of education. Many homeless have mental issues, addictions, escaped from abuse, faced financial ruin due to medical bills, or made poor decisions.

Questions we ask everyday:

How many have had to give up beloved pets?
How many live under the radar of government-required counts because they fear losing their pets?

Please continue your help and support. You are the outreach that makes it all possible and gives hope to the hopeless.

Article Inspires Donations

Because of this article at BuffaloNews.com, many donations from the public have come to Pets of the Homeless.

Genevieve Frederick, Founder/Director, said, "The article brought a new awareness to the plight of pets of the homeless in the NY area. We are grateful this happened because an informed public makes change possible. Thank-you New York for your generous spirit."

Life for pets of the homeless may not be ideal, but is a reality in nearly every city in the nation. Are we to turn away from these animals because we don't believe the homeless should have them? Shelters are overrun with animals facing euthanasia. Should the animals be taken away from the homeless only to be euthanized?

Emily Brady, owner of Fisher's Friends Dog Daycare in Snyder, NY, thinks there is another way. She learned about Pets of the Homeless at a pet expo she attended in Phoenix during the spring last year.

After further research, she made the commitment her business would become a donation site for the organization and would receive food donations for pets of the homeless in the area.

The end of last year, Fisher's Friends collected and delivered pet food to Friends of the Night People and Hearts for the Homeless where the food was distributed to those in need.

Brady became aware after asking those who came for help, that about 10 percent had at least one pet.

Emily Brady has a heart of gold. Change happens when good people step up.

Pets of the Homeless salutes Emily Brady and all who help the animals that need it the most.

Successful Fundraiser

by Terrific Team

Nadia Souza and Mariela Castillo were raised with a variety of pets in their childhoods. Each developed a fondness and passion for working with animals.

They joined together and began their pet care business, Pooch's Best Friend, LLC, in Costa Mesa, CA. Their individual personalities reflect the sincerity, expertise and professionalism necessary for a successful business partnership.

Nadia and Mariella learned about Pets of the Homeless but were unable to find any collection sites in the northern coastal cities of Orange County, CA.

After becoming members, they organized a fundraiser at "the Lazy Dog Cafe" in Irvine, CA on December 13, 2010. Their event made $85 for Feeding Pets of the Homeless.

Genevieve Frederick, Founder/Director, expressed gratitude and appreciation for their efforts on behalf of all the pets and people they have helped.

"We wish you great success with your public relations efforts as your community learns of your participation with Pets of the Homeless program."

Thank-you, Nadia and Mariela.