When CBS News Colorado broke the news about a Highlands Ranch 9-year-old Christmas pet drivethe community took action, and the drive received more donations than the Dumb Friends League could accept.
After losing her dog at Christmas last year, Milly Kukuczka has one wish this Christmas, make sure every pet without an owner has a present to open this Christmas.
“In memory of my dog Bella,” said Milly, “because I really miss her, and I want other pets to have toys for Christmas.”
RELATED: A Highlands Ranch 9-year-old organized a Colorado holiday pet drive after her dog died
Milly made fliers and spread the word about her request. He asked the community to donate food, toys, beds and other pets.
“From my mom and dad’s gym, my school, my friends, my mom and dad’s work and many other places,” Milly said.
CBS
Their response was more than Milly or her parents could have imagined.
“We were hoping to fill a box and we ended up filling four cars,” said Milly’s mother, Ashley Kukuczka. “Everyone grabbed a box and the community pitched in to support a 9-year-old’s Christmas wish. Truly magical.”
A few weeks later, they delivered the donations to the Denver Dumb Friends League — just in time for Christmas.
“Seeing four trucks stop because one person asked a question and the community rallied around him for it was really overwhelming. There were just a few of us in tears as it all went down,” said Mindy Robinson with Dumb Friends League.
The Denver Police Department even stopped by with their K9s to show support and Milly gave the first toy to a dog named Rosco.
CBS
“It was a lot of fun and I think she loved it,” Milly said.
A Christmas miracle made possible thanks to a 9-year-old’s wish, and the giving spirit of his community.
“It’s crazy that a little girl started all of this,” said Milly’s father, Mike Kukuczka.
“A little wish goes a long way,” agreed Ashley Kukuczka.
Dumb Friends League told CBS News Colorado that not only did they receive enough donations from Milly to make sure every pet had a toy for Christmas, but they got more than they needed which they were able to share with smaller partner shelters.
