LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Seven years ago, a Lubbock Animal Shelter employee started the Helping Paws campaign after learning that people were giving up their own food so their animals could eat.
LAS Supervisor Angelica Barbosa ran with the idea and is keeping the annual event at the center of what they do.
The shelter asked the community to not only donate pet supplies, but also winter clothing for people in need, and the donations came pouring in.
“It’s helping everybody out, it’s helping the animals out in need, it’s helping the people in need,” Barbosa said. “It’s showing the community we are trying to help out the best we can, we are trying to give out donations, we are trying to help anybody in need.”
LAS delivered the donations to local organizations and nonprofits for them to distribute.
One of these nonprofits is Meals on Wheels, which wants to remind Lubbock residents that their donations make a bigger impact than you may think.
“After we did our Santa delivery last week, we got some of the most touching phone calls and letters from family and clients, from the clients in particular,” Mary Gerlach, Assistant Director with Meals on Wheels said.
“It’s surprising how much just a small gesture can make and it’s really humbling. It’s just something that really makes a difference.”
Barbosa wants to thank everyone who was involved and hopes to continue this event for years to come.
“I honestly thank the community so much for donating: the dog food, the cat food, even the people stuff, the personal care items, the jackets, and coats,” Barbosa said. “Honestly without them, we wouldn’t be able to do this event.”
For more information on Lubbock Animal Services or to see how you can volunteer, click here.
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