The outside of the Community-Led Animal Welfare (Claw) property was a scene of organised chaos on Saturday,17 September, with groups of children standing around talking and laughing with a few barks in between – all of them waiting in line for their pets to be treated.
Inside, a scene completely opposite to the one outside could be seen.
A group of young children were sitting on the floor, rapt attention focused on the three women in front of them.
They each had a book open on their laps from which a story was read to them in English – and then translated into their home language to assist in understanding.
The book is the end product from Grey Advertising – a Valentine’s Day project that was started in 2014. In their annual Valentine’s Day briefing, they decided they would do something for a charity by donating their personal time. The initial idea was to assist the chosen charity by boosting their advertising, be it signage or growing their Facebook page. Nine charities were nominated, but the final vote was unanimous – Claw was the beneficiary that needed help the most.
“A new sign was recently put up at Claw, and their Facebook page is already managed beautifully, so we decided to do a children’s book to help with education,” said Toni Cheiman, author of the story.
The book, Zee Rescues a Friend, would be used as an educational tool as it is a story about a rescued dog. “I believe compassion can be taught, and that is what we were aiming for,” said Toni.
Cora Bailey, the founder of Claw, was very excited about the finished product. “These books will be distributed to as many schools in the area as possible,” she said.
It will also be used in Claw’s educational sessions which are held on Sundays with between 60 and 70 children attending.
“They’ll go back to where they live and spread the word. This way, they are assisting in the education process,” said Cora.
Claw received almost 900 books, most of which will be distributed in the community, but some of them will be sold. All money raised will go to Claw, to pay for vaccinations, treatments or school holiday programmes.
Claw will also receive the original electronic version of the book which can be sold as an e-book to help in generating much-needed income.
“We want the children to know they inspired this book – it is remarkable to see how they care for their pets,” concluded Toni.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bh94TYXVy9E&feature=youtu.be
