In a heartwarming partnership that marks a significant step toward community well-being, BFAIR has teamed up with the Berkshire Humane Society Pet Assistance Program and Elder Services of Berkshire County. This initiative, aimed at helping seniors by making sure their pets are well-nourished, begins today, March 5, at the Berkshire Humane Society in Pittsfield.
Building Bridges: Community Involvement and Support
The initiative sees participants from BFAIR’s Community Based Day Services (CBDS) programme, a scheme designed to improve the lives of adults with disabilities through community engagement and skills development, who have an active role. These participants will go first, starting with a trip to Pittsfield and Dalton to deliver pet food to over 20 adults. This not only provides much needed assistance but also fosters meaningful social interaction for participants in the CBDS program. According to Laura Baran, the recently appointed senior director of CBDS and Employment at BFAIR, this program is a testament to how community involvement can significantly impact and add value to local community initiatives, providing emphasis on the dual benefits of such volunteer service.
Strengthening Community Partnerships
The partnership between BFAIR, the Berkshire Humane Society, and Elder Services of Berkshire County demonstrates how diverse nonprofit organizations can come together to meet community needs effectively. Kayla Brown-Wood from Elder Services of Berkshire County expressed excitement over the initiative, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration in expanding their services to include pet assistance for Meals on Wheels recipients . John Perrault from the Berkshire Humane Society also praised the initiative, citing the remarkable nature of such a partnership in providing a meaningful service to both people and pets in the community.
A Step Towards Comprehensive Elderly Care
To be eligible for this pet assistance program, individuals must be recipients of Elder Services’ Meals on Wheels program. This initiative signals a broader approach to senior care, recognizing the importance of pets in the lives of many seniors and ensuring they are not overlooked in providing help and support. For those interested in availing this service or seeking a contribution, additional information can be found on the Elder Services website or by contacting them directly.
This partnership between BFAIR, the Berkshire Humane Society, and Elder Services of Berkshire County serves as a shining example of how targeted community action can fill important gaps in care and support. By addressing the nutritional needs of senior-owned pets, this initiative not only improves the animals’ welfare but also provides peace of mind to their owners, ensuring that no member of our community, no matter how small, will be left behind.
