By Sam Gil - Camillus House
MIAMI | Camillus House has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Banfield Foundation to fund the Homeless Pet Project (HPP). Along with the Joanna and Greg Swienton Dog Kennel and dog walk area, the HPP program will provide the necessary resources and supplies for clients to properly care for their pets.
“Camillus House is grateful for the Banfield Foundation and its support of the homeless population and their pets,” said Hilda M. Fernandez, CEO of Camillus House. “While enduring a difficult time on the streets, often individuals will adopt a pet, either for protection, a sense of belonging and even companionship. If Camillus was unable to allow clients to bring their pets with them as they access services, many simply would not enter the programs they critically need.”
Thanks to the Banfield Foundation, the homeless population in Miami-Dade County and those housed at Camillus’ main Norwegian Cruise Line campus can access products needed to properly care for their pets. Items including fresh food, collars and leashes, flea and tick medicine, bedding, and dog bowls will be accessible for homeless clients. This complements the kennel on-site and veterinarian services offered by Project Unleashed, a free veterinary clinic for homeless and needy pet owners.
Both the homeless client and pet will benefit from this project. Clients will be able to receive the services required to transition to self-sufficiency while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of ownership. Pets with be able to remain with their owner, keeping them off the streets, away from overcrowded animal shelters and possibly euthanasia.
“Banfield Foundation’s support of HPP makes a huge difference on the clients and pets served. Without having to worry about the resources to take care of their pet, clients can focus on their treatment and next steps to transition towards independence,” said Fernandez.
