Two years ago the Donlon family learned together about the Christmas Jar, a holiday tale told in a variety of storylines. The main premise of the Christmas Jar is that money is collected in a jar throughout the year starting in January. Then just before Christmas, the money in the jar is anonymously donated to a person or cause in need, or it is used to buy and donate needed goods such as food and clothing.
After sharing the story of the Christmas Jar with her young daughters, Jeannie Donlon asked them if they would like to start their own Christmas Jar, and so began a holiday tradition for the family. As Christmas 2009 approached, the Donlons were contemplating who or what cause could benefit from their year of savings in the Christmas Jar—an impressive $106.02! It did not take long for the Donlon daughters to suggest using the money to help homeless animals.
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Committed to supporting an animal shelter that does not kill healthy animals simply to make room for more animals, Jeannie Donlon searched the Internet for a suitable recipient. Jeannie discovered the website of NHES’s program service, The Briggs Animal Adoption Center (BAAC) and printed off the Wish List of much-needed daily care items vital to providing for the center’s average residents of 70 dogs and 120 cats.
The family took their $106 in cash, a pencil, and a calculator, and headed to the local pet store for animal care items. Referring to the Wish List and employing some entrepreneurial skills, the girls picked out six blankets, a large bag of cat litter, cat and dog treats, cleaning supplies, and other items.
When the Donlons arrived at the BAAC to drop off their donations, they were greeted by a holiday-decorated lobby and offered a full tour of the center. During this first-time visit, the kind-hearted family learned about the BAAC’s comprehensive animal rescue, placement, and care services as well as the animal welfare and behavior education provided to the general public.
NHES applauds the Donlon family for their actions to make the world a better place for animals, and we thank you for choosing the BAAC as your 2009 Christmas Jar beneficiary!
