God wants us to help animals, if they need help. Every creature in distress has the same right to be protected." Francis of Assisi Saint Francis Homelessness Challenge knows the important role that pets can play in our lives—including people experiencing or transitioning from homelessness. Despite the additional challenges, costs, and responsibilities that come with pet ownership, we have seen firsthand the positive impacts that pets provide (e.g. emotional support, companionship, personal safety, goal-setting, etc).
In addition to supporting low-barrier shelter and housing options that allow residents to maintain their pets, partners, and possessions, SFHC has previously donated to Project Open Paw, a wonderful organization in San Francisco that provides food, medical care, clothing, and toys to the pets of people living on the streets. SFHC welcomes opportunities to support the pets of people in transition from homelessness to housing, and is also supporting a "one-at-a-time" approach to dog fostering in New Mexico due to the nationwide crisis of overcrowding/euthanasia in New Mexico Shelters. Frankie T. Muffinz—a 2 year old female brindle terrier mix rescued from euthanasia at Valencia County Shelter in Los Lunas—is SFHC's first officially supported foster pup. |