The Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School National Junior Honor Society was hard at work during the month of December, collecting donations of dog and cat food, treats, toys, blankets and cleaning products for the nonprofit group, Francesca’s Furry Friends.
Francesca’s Furry Friends was named after Francesca Gallo. She was passionate about helping animals in shelters during the holiday season. Francesca lost her battle with leukemia in her teens, but the tradition she started many years ago continues with the help of the Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School National Junior Honor Society and their adviser Mrs. Lori Senia.
Posters were hung around the school, notifying students of this important event and announcements were made by honor society members each morning. One of the members, Lila Shapiro, even made her own posters and a collection box. She visited various local businesses, asking to place the box in store. Aside from the in-school collections made by many Oakdale-Bohemia students, Lila was very successful with this creative initiative and was able to collect and donate many items to the worthy cause.
This year, Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School collected over a dozen large bags of dog and cat food, toys, treats, collars, leads and blankets. All of the goods were donated in Francesca’s honor to the Kent Animal Shelter, Almost Home Animal Rescue and Gatto Pups and Friends. This year’s fundraiser proved to be a wonderful way to remember Francesca and her dedication to helping animals in need.
Photo caption: From left, students Sabrina DeCapua, Lila Shapiro, Charlotte Savage, Charlotte Maffetone and N. Anuszek gathered around the National Junior Honor Society’s donations for Francesca’s Furry Friends.
Photos courtesy of Connetquot Central School District
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