From Dec. 9 through Dec. 20, Gretna Media will be hosting a drive to support our local Humane Society. There will be a box in the office at GHS accepting donations to ease the pressure at the Nebraska Humane Society (NHS) to replenish their toy and food supply.
The main goal of this drive is to provide for the animals in unfortunate situations and give resources to all of the volunteers and workers striving to better the lives of these animals. Everyone can pitch in to help whether it is toys, food or funding.
“The Nebraska Humane Society protects, saves and enriches the lives of animals in the communities we serve,” states the Humane Society’s website. “We provide education, give sanctuary to animals, encourage adoptions and promote responsible pet ownership.”
Some items that will be collected are dog beds, enrichment toys, blankets, canned chicken, licky mats and empty cereal boxes. Check out the NHS website for more ideas of what to bring to this drive.
The NHS at 8929 Fort St. is a caring place that strives to house every animal that needs help. They perform rescues all over the Omaha area in hopes of giving every pet a home. The organization was founded in 1875 and continues to touch the lives of people and animals.
In 2023, the total intake of cats and dogs in the Omaha area added up to 11,416, according to the NHS website. But this doesn’t even come close to covering their entire operation. Along with cats and dogs, they also give shelter to many other species including, but not limited to, horses, goats, fish and bunnies. All of this means they require lots of funding to be able to feed and nurture all of the animals. The NHS is a donor-funded organization and depends on the donation of money and materials they receive.
“It’s a 16 million dollar a year operation,” Steven Elonich, the organization’s marketing manager said. “All things considered, heating and cooling your animal control, all of these supplies.”
With all of their donations, the Humane Society hasn’t had to euthanize a single healthy animal ever due to kennels being overcrowded. But for the NHS to continue this they still deserve and need donations to be able to expand to more homes all over the Omaha area.
This organization reaches out to everyone in their community with programs like Helping Heroes, which gives boarding to animals of veterans for a couple of weeks to allow time for recovery. Another community service they offer is the Pet Food Pantry, providing pet food for those in the community who just need a little help in order to keep animals in their home and with their families.
As Elonich said, “a pet is a part of their family and a part of their life story.”
While not everyone is able to adopt, there are still so many alternative ways to help and support your local animal shelter. So for all the animal lovers out there, spread the love, and save an animal. If you and your family ever need a cozy companion, consider adopting from a shelter, because they all deserve a second chance.
There is always something more you can do for your community. If you want to donate or learn more about their mission go to the NHS website. In the meantime, help us collect toys and pet food for this deserving organization.
