Hoofbeats & Pawprints Rescue (HPR) has initiated its third annual “Santa Paws” Holiday Challenge Grant, providing a platform for the community to enhance their holiday contributions. A group of anonymous donors, referred to as “HPR’s Santa’s elves,” has committed to a matching grant of $5,000. This means that every donation made to HPR will be matched dollar for dollar until they reach this goal.
HPR has a history of transforming lives, with numerous pets finding forever homes through their efforts. This year’s holiday season has been particularly special, as one of their long-time residents, a gentle pet named Drea, received her long-awaited chance at a loving home. Drea, who has special needs, had been at the rescue for several Christmases, her hopeful gaze waiting for someone to recognize her worth.
In the fall, Jan Speer, a retired ICU nurse from the Tampa, Florida area, discovered Drea’s photo while browsing the HPR website. Having previously cared for a pet with similar special needs, Jan felt an immediate connection to Drea’s story. “When the two finally met, it was clear their connection was instant and deep. Drea had finally found her person — and the happy life she had been dreaming of for so long,” said Kathy Fitch, HPR President. “Her holiday wish came true, and it’s the kind of holiday miracle your Santa Paws gifts to HPR make possible throughout the year.”
Community Support and Impact
HPR is a nonprofit organization located in Natchez, Mississippi, dedicated to the care, rehabilitation, and transportation of pets who cannot be adopted locally. This year, the organization is set to provide life-saving services to nearly 1,500 animals, many arriving in desperate need of medical care, nourishment, and safe shelter.
As the holiday season approaches, Fitch emphasizes the importance of community support. “Every day at HPR is a chance to offer hope — a warm bed to rest in, a full bowl, gentle care, and the promise of a better tomorrow. Winter brings increased demands, from higher medical needs to food costs, and we rely on the community’s support more than ever,” she stated.
Fitch also noted that donations made in honor or memory of loved ones can serve as meaningful gifts during the holidays. “For friends or family who already have everything, a gift given in their name can change an animal’s life,” she added. “We are also honored when supporters choose to provide a memorial gift for someone special through giving.”
How to Contribute
All donations to HPR are tax-deductible, and contributions made before December 31, 2023, will be matched through the Santa Paws Challenge Grant. There are several ways to contribute:
- By mail: Make checks payable to HPR and send them to 17341 River Road, Natchez MS 39120. Please include the name and address of any individual being honored so HPR may send a gift acknowledgment card.
- Online: Donations can be made easily via the HPR website at www.hoofbeatsandpawprintsrescue.org.
Through the Santa Paws Holiday Challenge, the community has a unique opportunity to support the invaluable work of Hoofbeats & Pawprints Rescue, ensuring that more animals like Drea find the loving homes they deserve.
