ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – While most kids ask for presents on their birthdays, one Delta County girl used hers as an opportunity to help some animals in need.
Olivia Leadman of Rapid River has always considered herself an animal lover.
“We have four papillons, one poodle, and one Great Dane, and a horse and cat,” she said.
For her 11th birthday, Olivia decided to help some other furry friends at the Delta Animal Shelter.
“I went to the animal shelter for a field trip, and that’s where I got the idea,” she said. “I wanted to donate to the animals because I felt bad for them because they didn’t have a home or anything.”
Instead of presents, Olivia asked about 10 of her friends to bring supplies for the shelter to her birthday party. The group collected items like kitty litter, cat and dog food, treats, toys, and some cash.
Olivia and her brother, Andrew, took a trip to the shelter to present the donation to the staff.
“We didn’t even know that they were doing this,” said Shelter Operations Coordinator Vonnie Bruce. “They just kind of came in one afternoon and said Olivia had asked for donations for the shelter for her birthday, which is really nice. A lot of kids don’t really have that mindset. It’s really nice to see our younger generation getting into animal welfare and get involved with their local shelter.”
The Delta Animal shelter is always happy to receive donations. Currently, the biggest need is for cleaning products, including liquid Lysol, Clorox wipes, and paper towels.
“We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal shelter, so we would not be able to stay open and continue to do everything we do for the community without donations,” Bruce explained. “We couldn’t afford to buy all the things that we get donated, so it’s crucial for us.”
In return for her donation, the shelter presented Olivia with a certificate of appreciation. Andrew says he plans to ask for donations for the shelter for his own birthday in September.
Knowing her generosity has made the animals’ lives a little bit better as they wait to find their forever homes, Olivia encourages other young people to consider donating to the shelter.
“It will make the animals happier so the shelter doesn’t have to waste as much money for the stuff,” said Olivia. “You can donate anything the animals would love.”
The Delta Animal Shelter has a wish list of items needed for the large number of animals in its care. Click here to view the wish list online.
To learn more about donating to the Delta Animal Shelter, visit the shelter on Facebook or in person at 6975 County 426 M.5 Road.
