A month-long crowdfunding campaign, launched June 1, raised more than $55,000 to support the UNC PAWS program, which was in jeopardy of closing. More than 460 individuals donated during the campaign, which was conducted by the Medical Foundation of North Carolina Inc.
Generally, grants and private donors fund PAWS and other innovative recovery programs but continued tight budgets have made it more difficult to secure funding for these programs. The successful fundraiser will allow the program to continue to operate for another year.
“The Center seeks to provide a full spectrum of treatment and recovery programs for the patients we serve,” said John Gilmore, MD, director of the Center.
“Being able to continue the innovative PAWS program next year and beyond will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients as they recover from their illnesses, as well as in the lives of the wonderful dogs that are such an important part of the program.”
PAWS rescues local shelter dogs and helps provide training for them to become Personal Support Dogs (PSD). Once trained, the dogs go to a forever home to provide companionship and support for a carefully screened client. PAWS’ personal support dog program is affiliated with a local nonprofit that trains dogs at North Carolina correctional facilities.