Lost kitty inspires girls to collect money for shelter
Shelby Williamson saw an article in the Banner Graphic about a kitten that was saved by S.P.O.T and the Subway Restaurant crew last week. It gave her the idea to collect money for the Putnam County Humane Shelter.
Eleven-year old Williamson along with her 10-year old friend MaKenzi Myers put together a collection of "gems" and began selling them to passer-by from a stand at the end of Williamson's driveway.
The two friends, who both own and love cats, were determined to make a difference for their four-footed friends. They collected over $175, all of which they plan to donate to the shelter.
"We didn't think we would have any customers at first," said Williamson. "But, people started stopping and buying our rocks and shells. We called them gems," she told the Banner Graphic last week.
"Our first customer was really someone from a garage sale we were at. One lady even wrote us a check for $11," added Myers.
The two girls first visited garage sales around the Heritage Lake area before deciding to open their own booth at Williamson's home located on S.R. 231 near Brick Chapel.
"We are both animal lovers and thought about our own cats and how much we love them," said Williamson who has lots of cats (all spayed and neutered).
"We knew the shelter was closing and we just wanted to do something to help," she added.
Williamson's mother Chris says they seem to attract cats. She takes them to her veterinarian and tries to find homes for some. The family still has four cats of their own and Chris says, "All the neighborhood cats like to come over and visit too."
The girls plan to continue selling their "gems" and are planning other projects to raise funds as well.
"I think we might do a book sale or something later on," said Williamson.
Anyone wishing to purchase a "gem" or donate to the girl's cause can call 765-721-4333.