Phila. Groups Team Up To Help Senior Citizens And Their Pets
By Marcy Norton
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Pets give older adults companionship and a way to connect with the community, but low income seniors can struggle with providing their pet's basic needs. That's where Gen Philly and PAWS, the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society, comes in.
The groups held a happy hour with a purpose on Thursday, organized by Gen Philly, which connects young professionals with older adults. Young people at the event at Center City's Marathon Grill were invited to donate pet food and toys for low income seniors with pets.
"A lot of social workers out in the field will tell you that they are often hearing stories of an older adult sacrificing their food so that their dog or cat does not go hungry," said Gen Philly's Brian Gralnick.
Alison Lamond of PAWS says a donation of pet food can be critical to a senior in need.
"Because sometimes it really is the difference between someone having to give up their pet and being able to keep their pet," said Lamond.
For more information and ways to help, visit the website: http://www.phillypetsandseniors.org/.
